IELTS Speaking · 4

On a typical weekday, I get up around seven, have a quick breakfast and head to work. My mornings are usually the most productive, so I tackle difficult tasks first. I definitely prefer waking up early because the house is quiet and I feel calmer. In my free time, I really enjoy gardening and reading novels, as both help me unwind. My routine has changed quite a bit recently; I started working from home a couple of days a week, which gives me more time to exercise in the mornings rather than commuting.

The hobby I'd like to talk about is baking bread, which I picked up about a year ago. It all started during a long holiday when I had a lot of free time and stumbled across a video showing how to make sourdough from scratch. I was fascinated by how something so simple, just flour, water and salt, could turn into a beautiful loaf, so I decided to give it a try. At first my results were honestly terrible; the bread was flat and dense. But I kept experimenting and gradually got the hang of it. Now I bake at least twice a week, usually at the weekend when I have time to let the dough rise slowly. I've even started a little notebook where I record each recipe and what I'd change next time. The reason I enjoy it so much is that it's incredibly relaxing and rewarding. There's something therapeutic about kneading dough by hand after a stressful day at work. On top of that, my family loves the fresh bread, and sharing it makes the whole process feel worthwhile. It has also taught me patience, because good bread simply can't be rushed. Overall, it's become a part of my weekly routine that I genuinely look forward to.

I think adults take up new hobbies mainly to relieve stress and to find a sense of achievement outside of work. As people get older, they often realise they need balance in their lives. Technology has definitely changed leisure time, though; many people now scroll on their phones instead of doing physical activities, which can be a bit passive. On the other hand, apps and online tutorials make learning new skills much easier. Schools should absolutely encourage hobbies because they build confidence, teach discipline, and help children discover talents they might otherwise never explore.