Answer: takesup

AnswerCrossword Clue
TAKESUPBegins, as a hobby
TAKESUPBegins to advocate
TAKESUPConsumes
TAKESUPMakes shorter.
TAKESUPBecomes interested in.
TAKESUPAssumes
TAKESUPAssumes, as a task
TAKESUPOccupies
TAKESUPStarts to practice