Cultivating a passion or hobby is more empowering than most realize, and finding the time to do it more possible than we once thought. Consider the dividends. Countless studies agree that integrating hobbies into our lives—be it gourmet cooking, gardening, vinyl-record collecting or volunteering for a political underdog—may not only be gratifying and exhilarating, but positively impact our overall well-being. One misconception? In a 24/7 world where we’re often maxed-out by responsibilities and job demands, the time to hit the reset button and have some serious fun is futile. Truth is, the more immersed we are in our careers, the more important the ingredient in our social diet. Physically challenging pastimes outside our comfort zone like kayaking, mountain climbing, or skydiving do well to ameliorate a stressful week, and mitigate factors that contribute to burnout, exhaustion, anger, depression, and even illness. They also allow us to return to the workday hubbub with more than bragging rights. Rather, we’re refreshed with an optimistic perspective, a clearer head, and an ability to do our jobs more effectively. Win-win.

Life Balance is Better.

With all the finest technology at our fingertips today, the good news is we can work anywhere; the bad news is...we can work anywhere! In one recent study, 44% of Americans check their email and texts on vacation, 50% in bed, and a full 60% are connected to their company email 13+ hours a day. Not surprisingly, the average American puts in a month and a half of overtime each year. With that kind of zeal, squeezing in extracurriculars is more essential than ever. Serious work calls for serious play. Slightly more creative than, say, extreme shopping or Netflix bingeing, instigate a playful riff with colleagues at the water-cooler about some of the more whimsical hobbies. There’s competitive whittling and church-bell ringing, belly dancing, storm chasing, yodeling, glass blowing, and gold-panning... Then think about choosing your own personal enrichment. Whatever it is doesn’t much matter. What does, is that you do it, and that it helps to make a better, well-rounded you.

LENOVO. FOR THOSE WHO DO.