It should satisfy your life: What is the truth of the three hobbies theory?

The three hobbies theory, currently circulating in numerous videos on platforms such as Tiktok, states that every person should have three hobbies:

• Encouraging creativity (pottery, crocheting, painting, etc.)
• Something that keeps you in shape (walking, cycling, swimming, etc.)
• Something that will make money (selling clothes at a flea market, tutoring, etc.)

Hobbies in these three areas should provide a good foundation for personal optimization and lead to a balanced and fulfilling life.

Entertainment and futurologist Ulrich Reinhardt (53) from Hamburg (D) focuses heavily on hobbies and the ways people pursue them. He criticizes the “Three Hobbies Theory”. “I’m clearly missing the social component,” he says. Most people and science place more emphasis on meeting friends than making money or keeping fit in their spare time.

On the other hand, according to experts, there are many people who do not have any hobbies but are still happy and healthy. He says hobbies are not a universal solution for everyone and every problem; Even if they relax and reduce stress.

Pressure to improve everywhere

Another thing Reinhardt criticizes about the theory is the spread of self-optimization. “Many people are already optimizing their work, home or appearance; their free time shouldn’t be optimized either.”

The hobby is neither about regularity nor other measuring indicators. “The focus is on relaxation and fun,” says Reinhardt. And he adds that leisure should always be defined by voluntariness and never by a purpose. “Otherwise it’s not free time.”

Instead of letting others or a trend on social media influence you, Reinhardt recommends listening to your inner self and doing the activity you want to do in that moment. According to experts, losing track of time is a good sign that you’ve found a suitable hobby.