Trying to Prevent Complete Burnout on the Hobby

[vwfence]

Rockoonz when i get some pictures , i will show you my rube goldberg / mcgiver flat lap i built out of mostly used parts and stuff in the shop . Wayne

[Brian]

Jan 31, 2022 8:42:58 GMT -5 Rockindad said:

Your first paragraph hits on another reason a change was needed for us- I am sharing the hobby with someone else. I don't want to ruin it for him either. My father (now in his mid-seventies) still talks about how his father made him take saxophone and clarinet lessons, play gigs, etc. to the point he resented playing music. Growing up I only saw him get out his instruments twice, and he didn't play them. It wasn't until a few months ago that he dusted off his sax and started playing, after a fifty-five year hiatus, with my youngest who had just started lessons. My older two kids are also very musical and even though he talked about playing with them I guess he wasn't ready to do it. So I am trying to keep a longer outlook in mind and not turn him off to the hobby for good.

That’s a great point, Al. I got into this hobby because of my kids and I got hooked pretty quick. With kids, it is very hard to find the right balance between encouraging them and pressuring them.

My wife and I both have music backgrounds and wanted our kids to do the same. We talked for hours about the best way to do it and have settled on a very low-key approach for them which has worked out well. We asked them to try it and let them decide what they wanted to do. So far, that has worked out well and both are getting great enjoyment out of it without it becoming a burden.

With the rocks, I wanted them to choose how much they wanted to do with it. I asked them to make decisions on the rocks to tumble and when to move things on, but I took care of the dirty work so it didn’t feel like a chore. They ended up helping much of the time because they think it’s fun to get their hands dirty with cleanouts.

We were going strong until a few months ago when home renovations put everything on hold. The tumblers have been sitting quiet, but the interest is still there. My daughter keeps asking when we can get the tumblers going again, which I was happy to hear. I think this break has been good because it let me see that it was still fun for them and they want to get things going again.

Taking breaks from hobbies is a good thing, especially for those that consume so much time.

[pizzano]

Al rockindad.........I didn't mention music intentionally, because to me, music (not just enjoy listening or collecting), but learning how to play an instrument of any kind and read music, takes more than that. The time, effort, discipline and certain innate passion and ability it takes to achieve some level of success or satisfaction, requires more than just a "hobby" aptitude and desire.....IMHO.

It's been my own personal experience and the passion of so many other's I've been blessed to be involved with, that music falls into a special category. Not really as casual as any "hobby" that I've ever been associated with (either for fun, recreation, profit or a life style).......music is a creative gift given to mankind, that effects (stirs) the soul, our inner most sensitivity(s).......no "hobby" has ever done that for me.

I will accept that music can initially be approached as a "hobby", creating or just listening........but, for some "strange reason", it has a way of triggering our emotions, passion, self expression, like no other physical property we experience in life (outside of maybe sex, combat, eating, drinking, athletic excursion) all those things that require our physical input........just listening to music does not require anything more than our attention........but somebody/something had to physically provide some kind of input........that's where it differs from a "hobby"........at least to me.

I think all of us who enjoy music (either creating or listening), will/can attest to the differences we feel between those we enjoy made from passion rather than just those created for creation sake......although, ART of any kind created with passion certainly can be argued to stir emotions........but nothing has the "vibe" music provides.......I know my Lyman Turbo vibes or diamond faceting discs don't provide that "inner" stimulation..........lol

That "music passion" can easily be disrupted if not left to it's own means and encouraged through proper example and proper exercise.........it can't be forced or otherwise regulated to a "hobby" regiment........in order to grow, thrive and blossom, for all who care, to enjoy and appreciate..........not as a "work" of art.......but rather an inner expression of one's self and immaterial being........a discipline of love....!

Sorry to get all "mushy" with this........music has been my "place of solace and solitude" my entire life....!

[Rockoonz]

pizzano it sounds like when it comes to music you may be more of what I would call a natural, we can also call it musically inclined or gifted. As a drummer for many years, a consistent ~10 hrs of practice a week and I was a pretty good cover band drummer. Life didn't always allow that. I sold the last of my hand drums and percussion gear before we moved, and I doubt I'll get more. The listening is an entirely different thing, I enjoy my Spotify collections.
All things creative activate a part of the mind that is a threat to homogenized plain vanilla life, and that's a good thing.

[realrockhound]

I’ve been doing the rock thing since I was very young. What’s kept me going strong and invested in the hobby, is the constant search for new deposits of material. I don’t even sell or make much in the form of cabochons, jewelry, etc.. just hounding. Finding new material has kept the passion alive all these years, and as far as I’m concerned, I’m just getting started.

[pizzano]

Jan 31, 2022 16:21:54 GMT -5 Rockoonz said:

pizzano it sounds like when it comes to music you may be more of what I would call a natural, we can also call it musically inclined or gifted. As a drummer for many years, a consistent ~10 hrs of practice a week and I was a pretty good cover band drummer. Life didn't always allow that. I sold the last of my hand drums and percussion gear before we moved, and I doubt I'll get more. The listening is an entirely different thing, I enjoy my Spotify collections.
All things creative activate a part of the mind that is a threat to homogenized plain vanilla life, and that's a good thing.

Yes.....I agree with that "natural" assessment........It was suggested to me, many times, at a very young age, that I possessed (was gifted) with an "ear" for music, and seemed to have more than a casual "passion" to make noise........lol.........since I came/come from a long line of musicians within the family, it seems it might be a DNA thing.....lol

It didn't come without the good influences, commitment and love that supported me..........lot's of "work" too......but more of a labor of "love" than anything else, for me.......never was influenced by pressure, demand, discipline in anyway........only pressure I have ever experienced is the pressure I've put on myself......! 

[vwfence]

where are you located realrockhound

[realrockhound]

Jan 31, 2022 17:15:50 GMT -5 vwfence said:

where are you located realrockhound

Currently I’m In Corvallis for the next 5 months, but my home base is out of central Oregon.

[Rockindad]

Jan 31, 2022 9:19:10 GMT -5 vwfence said:

I have to put in my nickels worth here , we , meaning my wife and i have been involved in rocks for about 20 yrs and got deeply involved in 2009 when i had cancer the 1rst time and had to quit work . I took early retirement and we moved to Az and i was in heaven for hunting . being on a limited budget i started buying well used equipment and rebuilding it until i had a set of machines that i kept and used for myself includeing 3 24 inch saws and 20s and 4 different old star diamond cabbing machines . my wife and i used to spend 1 day a week for sure in the mountains and sometimes more . than in 2018 i found out i had 2 more types of cancer and the world as i knew it stopped , the shop sat unused and 15 ton of rock in the yard wasnt touched . Finally as of nov 2021 1 cancer is in remission and the other slowing down it appears . with a bit more energy i started slabbing again about that time and as a Christmas present i bought a richardson sphere machine and am teaching myself {with help for a couple great members here } how to make spheres . the best part of this hobby for me was hunting for new rock and places to collect but the doctors say thoughs days are done period , so now my rock hunts are in the yard .

Again I know this is a bit off course , but its great to be back in the shop for small times and learning something new in the lapidary field .
If i bored you with this im sorry and if its considered someting in totally the wrong place tommy or management please remove it Wayne

No apology necessary, it was a perfect post as I am interested in others experiences. Glad you are on the path to recovery and are stocked up so your hunts are manageable.

[pizzano]

Jan 31, 2022 17:01:58 GMT -5 pizzano said:

Jan 31, 2022 16:21:54 GMT -5 Rockoonz said:

pizzano it sounds like when it comes to music you may be more of what I would call a natural, we can also call it musically inclined or gifted. As a drummer for many years, a consistent ~10 hrs of practice a week and I was a pretty good cover band drummer. Life didn't always allow that. I sold the last of my hand drums and percussion gear before we moved, and I doubt I'll get more. The listening is an entirely different thing, I enjoy my Spotify collections.
All things creative activate a part of the mind that is a threat to homogenized plain vanilla life, and that's a good thing.

Yes.....I agree with that "natural" assessment........It was suggested to me, many times, at a very young age, that I possessed (was gifted) with an "ear" for music, and seemed to have more than a casual "passion" to make noise........lol.........since I came/come from a long line of musicians within the family, it seems it might be a DNA thing.....lol

It didn't come without the good influences, commitment and love that supported me..........lot's of "work" too......but more of a labor of "love" than anything else, for me.......never was influenced by pressure, demand, discipline in anyway........only pressure I have ever experienced is the pressure I've put on myself......! 

I must also admit (with the utmost humility)......it has had it's down side as well.......It's caused me (a condition/product of it's own evolution), to be a little to critical and selective as to what I listen to and care to create.......especially, as I have aged and maybe "been there, done that"........Not to say I've ever "mastered" the craft/art. but rather found a comfort zone that still excites and stimulates that inner passion......otherwise, I would have probably moved onto a few other "passions" I still enjoy.........those things that still stimulate the mind and heart.........not so much "hobby" driven. 

I have the most adamant respect and appreciation for anyone who takes/explores any creative "passion".......to the limits, where it's more about the personal knowledge and satisfaction one gains giving rather than receiving......But, that's just me.........another thought for another time.  

[jamesp]

Of the contributors to this thread I have engaged with on this forum this thread has attracted a group of people I have enjoyed very special relationships with regardless of subject matter. And would likely find a special relationship with those contributors I have yet to engage with.

[Rockindad]

Jan 31, 2022 14:47:35 GMT -5 pizzano said:

Al rockindad.........I didn't mention music intentionally, because to me, music (not just enjoy listening or collecting), but learning how to play an instrument of any kind and read music, takes more than that. The time, effort, discipline and certain innate passion and ability it takes to achieve some level of success or satisfaction, requires more than just a "hobby" aptitude and desire.....IMHO.

It's been my own personal experience and the passion of so many other's I've been blessed to be involved with, that music falls into a special category. Not really as casual as any "hobby" that I've ever been associated with (either for fun, recreation, profit or a life style).......music is a creative gift given to mankind, that effects (stirs) the soul, our inner most sensitivity(s).......no "hobby" has ever done that for me.

I will accept that music can initially be approached as a "hobby", creating or just listening........but, for some "strange reason", it has a way of triggering our emotions, passion, self expression, like no other physical property we experience in life (outside of maybe sex, combat, eating, drinking, athletic excursion) all those things that require our physical input........just listening to music does not require anything more than our attention........but somebody/something had to physically provide some kind of input........that's where it differs from a "hobby"........at least to me.

I think all of us who enjoy music (either creating or listening), will/can attest to the differences we feel between those we enjoy made from passion rather than just those created for creation sake......although, ART of any kind created with passion certainly can be argued to stir emotions........but nothing has the "vibe" music provides.......I know my Lyman Turbo vibes or diamond faceting discs don't provide that "inner" stimulation..........lol

That "music passion" can easily be disrupted if not left to it's own means and encouraged through proper example and proper exercise.........it can't be forced or otherwise regulated to a "hobby" regiment........in order to grow, thrive and blossom, for all who care, to enjoy and appreciate..........not as a "work" of art.......but rather an inner expression of one's self and immaterial being........a discipline of love....!

Sorry to get all "mushy" with this........music has been my "place of solace and solitude" my entire life....!

We would have to start another thread or two to go down the music rabbit hole. Suffice it to say that it has always been and always will be a major part of my life. Unfortunately I cannot play my guitars like I used to due to uncooperative hands (carpal tunnel and some nerve stuff) I still get joy doing what I can. All of the kids are mult-instrumentalists by their own choice so I get all of the free concerts I want. My only regret is that none of them took up the guitar, would of been too easy and saved me a bit of money. Oh well. Completely agree with your last line, it has always been a comfort. 

[Rockindad]

Jan 30, 2022 21:51:02 GMT -5 stuckinohio said:

I'm glad this was brought up- I've been rolling it around in my mind for a while now. Like others have mentioned, it's easy to go "all in" until it becomes a chore. I'm still very new at this, and very much in love with it- the only hobby that has come close for me is my lifelong obsession with music. However, there's aspects that have already made me want to throw in the towel.

Much like being a musician, being a rock nut seems to come with natural ebbs and flows. Like Pat says, it's beneficial to focus on the parts you like and not worry so much about the aspects that aren't as appealing. Picking is a favorite part of this hobby for me, so planning solo trips around collecting material has been rewarding. Making the "Perfect Cab" is not- I stressed myself out so much trying to force myself to enjoy making cabs the "right way" to the point I wanted to quit. After some encouragement from friends to get back at it, I realized it's not that I don't love making cabs, it's that I want to make them freeform, maintaining a semblance to the original shape of the material, and to embrace that route, traditionalists be damned.

I will say I have never met such a nice group of folks than ones on this forum, and it has gone a long way towards keeping me interested and inspired in the hobby- even if most of the time I'm just lurking. I don't have any "real life" rockhound pals- mostly due to location- and I often wonder how much of an influence having a couple non-virtual rockhead pals would go towards keeping the hobby exciting.

Sometimes these realizations tell us more about our overarching personality traits, right? I know I tend to go all in right at the beginning and experience burnout as a result- whether it be hobbies, relationships, whatever. Thankfully, rocks are patient. And if the love of the hobby dies completely, the tools of the trade appear to garner a pretty decent return on investment, especially in these times!

I would guess this is an issue for many who do not live in areas where the hobby is more popular or in areas that you can go out and "hunt" material after a relatively short drive. I get envious when I read posts about "going to the local rock shop", "went to another show", "went looking for this or that", etc. My son is now 13 and does not know anyone else involved in the hobby. It doesn't seem to bother him but it does make it something that we just do together instead of him talking about it with his peers. I had a guy that works for me tell me his kid tumbled rocks for a few months when he was younger, that's as close as I got to meeting anyone. 

It's just another reason to be thankful this forum exists.

[pizzano]

Jan 31, 2022 16:21:54 GMT -5 Rockoonz said:

pizzano it sounds like when it comes to music you may be more of what I would call a natural, we can also call it musically inclined or gifted. As a drummer for many years, a consistent ~10 hrs of practice a week and I was a pretty good cover band drummer. Life didn't always allow that. I sold the last of my hand drums and percussion gear before we moved, and I doubt I'll get more. The listening is an entirely different thing, I enjoy my Spotify collections.
All things creative activate a part of the mind that is a threat to homogenized plain vanilla life, and that's a good thing.

I hadn't associated your music collection with Spotify....kinda blew over that.......Hope the Rogan issue settles.......I don't use anything more than my Black Player to store and replay my saved artists and tunes......do not rely on any 3rd party cloud for anything......Black Player is used for the phone only, hard drive(s), hard mobile storage devices and CD's remain my go-to playback........especially for anything I've personally created and mixed.

The Rogan BS has chased away quite a few artists I enjoy......there is a whole lot of strength in numbers especially in the music business....piss-off enough money makers and watch Spotify spin out of circulation and become nothing more than a chat/blog if Rogan is allowed to continue his historical "dis-information" rhetoric related to anything conservatives disagree with him on........his comic platform has suffered from delusion for years......just another wealthy athlete that has suffered from a Napoleon complex (and more than a few concussions) his entire life......found a niche in Podcast/YouTube...has been laughing all the way to bank ever since.......lol....our youth just loves to spend their parents money on "super-heroes". 

[Rockoonz]

Feb 1, 2022 20:07:39 GMT -5 pizzano said:

Jan 31, 2022 16:21:54 GMT -5 Rockoonz said:

pizzano it sounds like when it comes to music you may be more of what I would call a natural, we can also call it musically inclined or gifted. As a drummer for many years, a consistent ~10 hrs of practice a week and I was a pretty good cover band drummer. Life didn't always allow that. I sold the last of my hand drums and percussion gear before we moved, and I doubt I'll get more. The listening is an entirely different thing, I enjoy my Spotify collections.
All things creative activate a part of the mind that is a threat to homogenized plain vanilla life, and that's a good thing.

I hadn't associated your music collection with Spotify....kinda blew over that.......Hope the Rogan issue settles.......I don't use anything more than my Black Player to store and replay my saved artists and tunes......do not rely on any 3rd party cloud for anything......Black Player is used for the phone only, hard drive(s), hard mobile storage devices and CD's remain my go-to playback........especially for anything I've personally created and mixed.

The Rogan BS has chased away quite a few artists I enjoy......there is a whole lot of strength in numbers especially in the music business....piss-off enough money makers and watch Spotify spin out of circulation and become nothing more than a chat/blog if Rogan is allowed to continue his historical "dis-information" rhetoric related to anything conservatives disagree with him on........his comic platform has suffered from delusion for years......just another wealthy athlete that has suffered from a Napoleon complex (and more than a few concussions) his entire life......found a niche in Podcast/YouTube...has been laughing all the way to bank ever since.......lol....our youth just loves to spend their parents money on "super-heroes". 

The Spotify connection is that I can plug in an artist I like and next thing you know I find someone I have either never heard of or don't remember for my latest favorite. Lots of songs that never went top 40 too, the ones that sold the best to the masses were seldom my favorites. The song you can dance to with lyrics any kindergarten child can remember sure are where the money is, though.
Haven't been a podcast guy, though there are a few social commentators I enjoy hearing even when they uproot my deeply held notions.
For the last couple years, isn't misinformation just what those in charge were saying 3 months ago? I'll stop, don't want to send another guys thread to the cave.

[aDave]

Jan 30, 2022 15:11:49 GMT -5 Rockindad said:

Probably not unlike many before us we have been experiencing a bit of burnout with regards to the hobby... 

Interested to hear how others have dealt with this.

I'm currently in my "lull," and it's been that way for about a year and a half.  I shut off the tumblers for a trip, and they haven't been on since.  Funny thing is that for that time period, I kept the rocks I was tumbling in water, fully anticipating getting to them again.  I only recently took the rocks out of the buckets.

Things have changed here at home, and other priorities have come to the surface.  There is an end in sight with some of those things, but I don't know if I'll start the tumblers back up again or not.

I'm still on here most every day, but my time has been limited more than it has been in the past.  I still enjoy reading, but I often find myself not having much to add to conversations since I may be late in the game...much like this thread. 

[greig]

It's like going to the gym. Easy to stop or put off and difficult to start up again. Nothing wrong with taking a break and you can start up again with good friends for support, trying something new or just realizing that it is something you used to enjoy. The rocks aren't going anywhere and will patiently wait for you.

[rockjunquie]

It's already been briefly mentioned, but I think it warrants saying it again- there are many, many facets to this hobby. I won't list them all- you all know. So, if I get bored with cabbing or with doing preforms, I can wrap or do something else. Even just pulling cabs out to admire them is part of the hobby... and taking pictures. Lots of stuff to consider and master. I doubt I'll ever lose complete interest.

[vwfence]

if i master sphere making i want to learn silver smithing and possibly working with metal clay

[realrockhound]

I just need to stop digging/prospecting and actually do something with the material haha. I'm turning into Gollum with the dang things.