I am a PPL and I find the 100% committment / involvement one of the most enjoyable elements of hobby flying. I can certainly guarantee not to be thinking about the day job when flying.
Many people ride motorcycles for leisure, and less than 100% concentration is more likely to end badly (in my view) than almost any other activity.
Hobby flying from Redhill base: sometimes I just go up for an hour or so to practice. Trips to Weston Heli day, Hull (landed in the garden of the hotel for a 2 day visit), Cholmondly Pagent of Power (Cheshire). I intend to run up to the Scottish Highlands next year - let planning commence!
John