As someone who has carried out anthropological research in several different settings and on various groups, it can be easy to make participant observation, note-taking, and writing up research feel highly formalised. This is, of course, important for maintaining good research standards and credibility.
However, anthropology doesn’t have to be only a career or job description. It can also be a hobby—a fun and engaging one.
I try to practise anthropology as often as I can: when watching domestic or foreign films, observing people in everyday settings, or analysing automatic translations on foreign websites (some word-for-word translations can be both amusing and informative). And because you’re not observing to publish academic research, you don’t need to focus on many things or delve into complex issues. It’s enough to notice simple details—like toilets, body language, how close people stand to each other, naming customs, eating arrangements, and so on. It’s not about constructing theories; it’s about practising observation and enjoying the act of being curious.
Because this isn’t a professional research context, you also don’t need to limit yourself to one group or setting. This gives you the freedom to let your eyes wander and simply notice what stands out, without the need for a rigid framework.
This kind of everyday observation sharpens your skills. The more attuned you are to small cultural variations and sensory details, the more insightful questions you can ask. It also helps you better understand any context you find yourself in—a valuable tool for developing strong intercultural awareness.
And finally, your observations often make for great conversation starters. Asking something like, “How do people usually stand in an elevator in this country?” is a question most people have never consciously considered. They’ll likely appreciate your eye for detail—and might even join you in looking at the world a little more curiously.