I learned that I had an artistic side to myself that was repressed for 56 years. I enjoy the scenery and buildings much, much more than I thought I would when I started.
From a very young age I learned about electricity and developed many craft skills I have used outside the hobby all my life.
This is a very good question! What I have gleaned from this hobby is focus, patients, to strengthen my weak points (electrial) as well as my strong suits, and a persuit of a higher degree of excellence. From this endevor I have gained a sence of pure joy and passion, That has made me a better person over all.
My greatest surprise is what I learned through model building I can apply to other areas. My father-in-law who was in contruction for many years, after seeing the models I built, told me to apply this knowledge to fixing things around the house. He would say, "You can do it, just think of it as a lot bigger." He's right, this past summer I put a new roof and foam insulation in our pump house and it was easier than I thought it would be. Same goes for simple electrical work and carpentry. That's been the added bonus. Mark there are so many people that don't even make the attempt to find out if they any artistic talent, even though you say it took 56 years aren't you glad you did.
I have learned how to slow myself down on the things that shouldn't be rushed. And I have learned how NOT to get so caught up in a hobby that it turns into work instead of fun. ---jps
I'd say I didn't learn so much as I confirmed everything I already knew about myself. Designer, Planner, Artist, Tech, Helper, Asker, Sharer, Contributor, Aggressive, Competitive, Overt, Confident, Clever, Creative, Adamant, Controversial, Easy Going and a lousy speller. (and a bunch of other things)
I see myself in all the posts so far. I learned that when I am feeling in the dumps about life, or stressed about work, or feel like I need to do something around the house, etc. Stopping and doing something for the layout, build on a structure kit, lay some track, swap out wheel sets, etc. Is always a good pit stop to repower before dealing with the challenges of real life.
I learned that I could understand electronics. Those little electronic projects got me a start in the computer industry in 1979, and it was gangbusters for about 15 years.
I've learned after over 50+ years, model railroading is a wonderful lifelong hobby with many different facets. Stay cool and run steam.....
I found I have an artistic side in me I did not know about, I learned I have a knack for photography.
Mark, I know I'll probably never be as good as some of the craftmen at trainboard but that doesn't matter to me, I'm having a blast doing it and that's what is important. I admire people who at whatever stage in life, decide to do something that they've always wanted to do (and sometimes it's against the advice of others.) Mark, I admire the work you have done on your layout. What was once just wood, foam and other assorted material has become a creative work of art and that also goes for most the work I've seen at the trainboard.
Pretty much all of the above. I am also intrigued with the hidden artistry within all of us. I was quite surprised at how fascinated I have become with real trains. Modeler first, shot a few proto photos to study weathering, and now railfanning & photography is one of my two great hobby passions. They nicely compliment each other.
My wife told me that little alien head from the movie "Alien" popped out from under my shirt when I started the layout and has been rearing its head ever since, luring me into unknown worlds never before explored by me.
1/ That I didn't know as much about trains as I thought I did. 2/ That by working for a railroad,and belonging to a union, I realized just how valuable my time could be. CT
