Learning to ice skate was the one hobby that helped my mental health while being unemployed.
Brittany Johnson
When I was laid off from my job in early 2025, I knew I'd need to tighten up my budget to make ends meet until I found my next role.Naturally, in the throes of unemployment, I decided to make the most irrational financial decision and pick up one of the most expensive sports as a new hobby: ice-skating.Growing up, I begged my mom for skating lessons, and she eventually agreed. However, even at 10 years old, I felt so much older than the other kids in my class, so I stopped going.Fast forward about 20 years, and I was unemployed and needed an escape from job hunting.Even though it would be pricey — especially for someone with limited finances — I decided to give skating another try and allow this childhood dream to come to life.Between the $350 skates, over $100 in group lessons, an additional $100 an hour for private coaching, and the extra warm clothing and knee pads I bought to protect my aching body, I had already spent over $600 just in my first month.On top of that, I was paying nearly $20 to reserve the rink for about an hour each time, and another $20 every few months to have my skates sharpened. I also couldn't say no to buying skirts that I hoped to one day twirl in while gliding on the ice.
