When we are children in school, especially traditional schools, we are often advised to focus on our academics and remember that hobbies are not important. We are asked to prioritize academic excellence over-committing time to extra-curricular activities (“extra” being the keyword here). Although, now with emerging longitudinal research in personality and education, there is irrefutable evidence to suggest that it is these hobbies that play the greatest role in personality development.
Sports, interschool competitions, group activities, art, debates, and such activities are not only important, but they are superlative in the value they add to an individual’s personal growth. Through these, children learn to collaborate, create and communicate effectively. They learn to ideate and plan both as leaders and team players, where they can refine their ability to execute problem-solving, decision-making, and confidence-building. Furthermore, these opportunities inculcate a sense of commitment and discipline in children, which become key life skills as adults.
The 21st century adult must be equipped with a sense of versatility that makes them competent in a wide range of skill sets. They must be technically skilled but also have the ability to grow businesses and lead corporate teams. They must be quick thinkers and have an analytical growth mindset. They must be fierce leaders, but also inclusive, diverse, and empathetic team members who can collaborate together to reach the commonly desired outcome.
These maverick skills are hard to imbibe as adults, if they are not considered as valuable in children. Through simple hobbies, participation in school and after-school activities, children will begin to discover what they truly enjoy doing and how to commit themselves to these endeavours. This lays the foundation of becoming adults who are more prepared to excel in lives as adults and who can make the most of every opportunity that may present itself to them. These are children who grow up into adventurous and fearless changemakers of the 21st century.
Dr. Jinal Joshi