How to Find Things That Interest You

Whether you're looking for a change in your career or want to take up a new and fulfilling hobby, it's essential to discover the things that truly interest and motivate you. This will require becoming more aware of your personality traits and being honest about your professional and personal goals. With a few everyday items and some honest reflection on who you are and what you want, you will be well on your way to discovering new things that interest you.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper
• Invitations
• PDA/day planner

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Instructions

• 1

  Grab a pen and paper and write down all the words that describe you. Don't censor yourself; just scribble down the first things that come to mind, e.g. "ambitious," "athletic" or "creative."

• 2

  Study each description and ask yourself if your life's activities match the adjectives you have used. For instance, if you wrote that you're artistic, consider whether your career allows you to think outside of the box. This will help you to determine if you're truly interested in the arts, or simply have a mild appreciation for them.

• 3

  Purchase invitations and ask your friends and loved ones to come over for lunch or dinner so they can help you figure out your interests (you can invite them via email as well). For instance, if you're heading off to college and are not quite sure what subjects or causes truly intrigue you, ask your friends to give you their honest opinions about your personality, e.g. "You're really outgoing," or "You're shy but very caring and friendly once people get to know you." Often, those closest to you can see things in you that you may not see in yourself, and can help you to accurately decide your particular interests.

• 4

  Spend time in meditation. After you have received honest feedback from friends, take a few minutes each day to explore your feelings and life goals. Don't consider the amount of training you have in a certain area, or how old you are. Simply focus on your interests. This will help you to put together a list of activities you want to try.

• 5

  Get out and try something new! Do something you have never done at least once a month to get a clear picture of your interests. For instance, if you're remotely interested in sports, join a community baseball team for beginners. If you think art intrigues you, visit a museum every few weeks to learn about painters from different historical periods.