The sun sets before five, the wind whips, and discarded Christmas trees line the curb. You’re back at work, and the post-holiday haze has settled in—cookie cravings, a tinge of melancholy, and the urge to both hibernate and overhaul your life all at once. In other words, it’s January.

You may already have your New Year’s resolutions mapped out, but allow us to suggest one that might be easier than training for a marathon at 5 a.m.: pick up a hobby.

Research shows that having a hobby—especially one that pulls you offline, away from doomscrolling, and into analog pleasures—is linked to greater happiness and well-being. Hobbies might even help you live longer. A 2025 study found that for people over 50, having a hobby reduces mortality risk by 29%. The study notes that hobbies stand apart from other leisure activities because they involve “intentional engagement and enjoyment.” So whether you’re crafting, making art, or volunteering, you’re doing something for yourself—and the benefits are real.

If you need inspiration, look no further than Vogue’s January digital cover star and certified hobby queen, Amanda Seyfried. Over the years, she’s offered glimpses into her many delightful pastimes, from crocheting to magic tricks and beyond.

“I can’t do one thing. I have to be crocheting and doing something else,” she told Seth Meyers last year while promoting her crime drama Long Bright River. “I can crochet, which is very therapeutic, and then I listen to books on tape,” she added. She gifted Meyers a crocheted Icelandic poppy she made and mentioned she often gives her creations to friends, like a crocheted purse for Sydney Sweeney after wrapping The Housemaid.

Seyfried is also known for her musical talent, having sung in The Testament of Ann Lee, Mamma Mia!, and Les Misérables. She grew up playing piano and clarinet and now plays guitar and the dulcimer—an acoustic Appalachian lap instrument she learned during the pandemic. Last year, she showcased her dulcimer skills on Jimmy Fallon with a cover of Joni Mitchell’s “California,” stunning fans with the hidden talent.

As if that weren’t enough, Seyfried also moonlights as a magician; she recently made a coin disappear (and reappear) on Seth Meyers. So for a little more whimsy and joy this year, why not pick up a crochet hook or paintbrush, or join a book club? With any luck, 2026 could be the year of the hobby.

Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs Taking a Cue from Amanda Seyfried Picking Up a New Hobby

Q1 What does take a cue from Amanda Seyfried mean in this context
A It means getting inspiration from how Amanda Seyfried has publicly embraced hobbies like knitting and crocheting for relaxation and creativity and applying that idea to your own life by starting something new

Q2 Why should I pick up a new hobby What are the benefits
A A new hobby can reduce stress boost your mood improve focus provide a sense of accomplishment and help you learn new skills Its a great way to unwind and add more joy to your routine

Q3 Im overwhelmed by choice How do I even start picking a hobby
A Start simple Think about what you enjoyed as a kid what piques your curiosity now or what fits your current lifestyle Try a beginner kit watch a few tutorial videos or take a short introductory class

Q4 What are some good beginnerfriendly hobbies like Amandas knitting
A Great starters include drawing or adult coloring container gardening baking bread journaling learning basic chords on a ukulele hiking or trying a craft like simple embroidery or diamond painting

Q5 Im worried I dont have enough time or money for a hobby
A Many hobbies are lowcost and flexible You can dedicate just 1530 minutes a week Start with free online resources and minimal supplies The key is consistency not big investments

Q6 Whats a common mistake beginners make
A Trying to do too much too fast or comparing their early results to experts Start with a small manageable project embrace the learning process and allow yourself to be imperfect

Q7 How do I stay motivated if I get bored or frustrated
A Set minigoals join an online community or local group for accountability switch between projects or remind yourself of the whyare you doing it for fun relaxation or a challenge Its okay to take a break or even switch hobbies

Q8 Are there hobbies that are particularly good for mental health
A Yes Mindfulnessbased hobbies like knitting gardening painting or playing an instrument can be med