The role of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) extends far beyond crunching numbers and balancing books. CFOs are responsible for strategic decision-making, financial planning, risk management, and ensuring an organization’s financial stability. Given the demanding nature of their work, CFOs often face high levels of stress and burnout.

To maintain peak performance, financial leaders must find ways to relax, recharge, and stimulate their minds outside the workplace. Engaging in recreational activities for CFOs can improve cognitive abilities, enhance leadership skills, and contribute to overall well-being.

In this article, we explore 10 finance-friendly hobbies that can help CFOs achieve personal and professional growth while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

This article covers must-read books for finance professionals in 2025.

Why CFOs Need Recreational Activities

Many finance professionals prioritize work over personal interests, often neglecting their mental and physical well-being. However, recreational activities for CFOs can provide several benefits, including:

• Stress Reduction – Activities like running, yoga, and meditation help CFOs manage stress and maintain emotional balance.
• Improved Decision-Making – Engaging in strategy-based hobbies like chess or investment simulations sharpens analytical thinking.
• Networking Opportunities – Some hobbies, such as investment clubs or wine tasting, provide an avenue for professional networking.
• Personal Fulfillment – Pursuing a passion outside of work leads to a more balanced and satisfying life.

With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the best finance-friendly hobbies for CFOs.

Finance-friendly Hobbies for CFOs

1. Investment Club Participation

While CFOs are experts in corporate finance, personal investing can be an engaging and insightful hobby. Joining an investment club allows financial leaders to:

• Discuss market trends, stock performance, and investment strategies with like-minded individuals.
• Stay updated on economic changes and emerging financial opportunities.
• Apply financial skills in a risk-controlled personal setting.

Investment clubs provide an informal yet educational environment to explore new asset classes, refine risk assessment skills, and engage in financial discussions beyond the corporate world.

2. Chess and Strategy Games

Chess, poker, and other strategy-based games are excellent recreational activities for CFOs because they:

• Improve strategic thinking and risk assessment—essential skills for financial planning.
• Enhance patience and decision-making abilities.
• Foster competitive yet analytical mindsets that can be applied in business scenarios.

These games encourage long-term planning, helping CFOs think ahead and anticipate outcomes—just as they would in financial forecasting.

3. Reading Business and Finance Literature

CFOs must constantly stay informed about financial trends and industry changes. Reading books, journals, and blogs on business strategy, financial markets, and leadership helps finance professionals:

• Expand their knowledge in finance, economics, and corporate governance.
• Gain insights from industry experts and successful investors.
• Stay ahead of financial innovations and market disruptions.

Books like The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham or Principles by Ray Dalio are great resources for CFOs looking to enhance their financial expertise outside of work.

4. Public Speaking and Thought Leadership

Many CFOs are comfortable with numbers but struggle with public speaking. Engaging in public speaking clubs like Toastmasters or presenting at finance conferences helps CFOs:

• Build confidence in communication.
• Improve presentation skills for board meetings and investor discussions.
• Establish themselves as thought leaders in the finance industry.

By honing their public speaking abilities, CFOs can articulate financial concepts more effectively to stakeholders, employees, and investors.

5. Running and Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is crucial for CFOs who often work long hours in high-stress environments. Activities like running, cycling, or yoga can:

• Boost mental clarity and focus.
• Reduce stress and prevent burnout.
• Improve energy levels and overall health.

Many business leaders, including CFOs, use exercise as a way to clear their minds and maintain productivity.

6. Volunteering for Financial Literacy Initiatives

Giving back to the community can be a fulfilling hobby for CFOs. By participating in financial literacy programs, CFOs can:

• Mentor young professionals and entrepreneurs on financial management.
• Educate communities on budgeting, investments, and debt management.
• Create a positive social impact while utilizing their expertise.

Volunteering not only strengthens leadership skills but also enhances a CFO’s sense of purpose beyond corporate responsibilities.

7. Wine or Coffee Tasting

A more relaxed yet intellectually engaging hobby, wine or coffee tasting involves analyzing flavors, regions, and brewing techniques—skills that parallel financial analysis. This hobby:

• Enhances sensory appreciation and attention to detail.
• Provides networking opportunities with executives in social settings.
• Encourages mindfulness and relaxation.

CFOs can attend tasting events or explore different coffee blends as a way to unwind and enjoy new experiences.

8. Traveling for Business and Cultural Exposure

Exploring different cultures and economies is beneficial for CFOs who work in global finance. Traveling helps finance professionals:

• Gain firsthand insights into global markets and economic policies.
• Build cross-border relationships with industry professionals.
• Develop cultural adaptability, which is essential for international business dealings.

Whether attending finance summits or exploring new countries, travel broadens a CFO’s perspective and enhances their global business acumen.

9. Learning a New Language

In today’s globalized world, CFOs who can speak multiple languages have a competitive advantage. Learning languages like French, Mandarin, or Spanish can:

• Improve communication with international clients and stakeholders.
• Provide deeper insights into foreign financial markets.
• Enhance cognitive skills and mental agility.

Online platforms like Duolingo or professional language courses make it easier for busy CFOs to incorporate language learning into their schedules.

10. Blogging or Podcasting About Finance Trends

CFOs have a wealth of knowledge that can be shared with a broader audience. Writing a finance blog or hosting a podcast allows them to:

• Establish themselves as industry experts.
• Share insights on financial trends, corporate finance, and investment strategies.
• Build a professional brand in the finance community.

With digital finance rapidly evolving, having a voice in these discussions can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Conclusion

A CFO’s responsibilities go beyond numbers—they require strategic thinking, leadership, and continuous learning. Engaging in recreational activities for CFOs fosters personal growth, improves professional skills, and enhances overall well-being.

At Duplo, we understand the complexities of financial management and provide tools that automate payments, invoice processing, and expense management. By streamlining operations, CFOs can focus on strategy, leadership, and even the hobbies that enrich their lives.

If you’re a CFO looking for a better work-life balance, which of these hobbies would you like to try? Let us know in the comments!