10 ways successful people spend their free time

Turns out, successful people are just as intentional about how they spend their downtime as they are about their work time. Check out these ten ways that successful people spend their free time. 

Why not try a few of these ideas to see if your productivity levels soar? From unplugging the WIFI to getting your steps in and enjoying the fresh air, with these simple tricks you’ll be feeling successful in no time.

1. They never stop learning

It’s valuable for all of us to exercise the most important muscle in our body – the brain. One thing that very successful people will tell you is to never stop trying to learn new things. Take a class, learn a skill, or practice something that you’re passionate about.

There’s so much education available online – there’s no excuse! It’s easier than ever to enroll in a course and add a new skill to your plate with just a few committed hours per week. If you’re interested in taking a class, check out the local colleges in your area to see if they are offering any free courses or sign up for a free e-course.

2. They put exercise first

Most successful people understand that to operate at their peak mental state, they must take care of their physical state as well. The benefits of exercise are limitless – it releases endorphins, burns calories, builds muscles, and sends oxygen to your brain. Maintaining a workout schedule also ensures that you are regularly practicing self-discipline, which benefits all areas of your life and career. If you haven’t yet found an exercise routine that works for you, try committing to at least half an hour a day of some sort of movement, whether it’s walking, jogging, or taking a guided exercise class.

Remember, exercise can be fun! Try new forms of movement you may not have considered yet like rock climbing, bouldering, or swimming. It can also help to exercise with a friend so you have someone to help keep you motivated.

3. They spend time with friends and family

This may seem like a no-brainer but maintaining a sense of connection with the ones you love is key to living a healthy, prosperous life. Whether it’s through scheduled trips, designated quality time, or even regular FaceTime sessions, keeping in touch with loved ones ensures that you stay grounded. Try keeping a regular meetup with a friend or family member during your downtime. Most likely, you’ll find that this quality time will leave you refreshed and ready to take on whatever challenges you may face when you head back to work.

4. They reflect on their accomplishments

It’s important to develop self-awareness if you want to be successful. This doesn’t just mean being able to assess a failure and learn from it – it also means being able to step back and appreciate your accomplishments. So much work goes into achieving a goal, and successful people realize the importance of honoring this work by reflecting on and celebrating their wins.

The next time you check a big goal off your list, make sure you take some dedicated time to reflect on everything that went into your achievement before immediately moving on to the next task. Perspective is crucial to continual growth.

5. They practice stress management techniques

Sadly, avoiding all stress is impossible, it’s a part of life and navigating a career. Successful people understand themselves, and how they react to pressure, inside out. If you know how you deal with stress you can try different strategies to help you better manage your reactions.

If you recognize that you have certain habitual reactions to stress, such as breathing erratically or verbally lashing out at others, find out how you can change those reactions to something more positive. Whether you decide to take long walks, practice meditation, take part in relaxing exercise such as yoga, or spend time focusing on your breath, small changes can make a big impact.

6. They volunteer and give back to their community

Successful people are those who not only look to the future but also understand the importance of supporting others. If you are looking to make a positive impact in the world, you don’t have to wait to be successful to do so.

Why not volunteer for a local charity, gift food or clothing to the homeless, or donate used goods to a thrift store or those in need? You’ll immediately make a difference, not only in your community but in yourself. Giving to those who are less fortunate helps connect you to another side of humanity and gives you some perspective on everything you have to be grateful for.

7. They get creative

Studies show that successful people who engage in creative activities outside of the office feel more focused and relaxed when they return to work. Activities such as painting, playing a musical instrument, knitting, journaling, and dancing allow people to drop into a creative flow state.

This state is a sort of meditative time for the brain, which stimulates openings for creative ideas, innovative breakthroughs, and more focused future states of mind. Whatever activity you choose to practice, remember that we are all creative beings, and exploring this side of your brain will reward you in your technical work as well.

8. They unplug from work

Successful people understand that brains need rest too. They’ve learned that, for them to operate at peak state during work hours, they need to make sure they rest and recharge during their time off.

Designate device-free evenings or weekends to allow your brain to fully switch off from work mode. If this thought overwhelms you, start small. Set a timer for five minutes of silence every day for a week, then increase it to 10 minutes, etc. Chances are, your brain will thank you for this time to rest, renew, and unwind.

9. They read a lot of books

Successful people never stop reading books. In fact, some read multiple books a month. After all, reading is a lifelong skill with many benefits including gaining a greater understanding of the world around you. Reading books introduces you to new people, perspectives, skills, and languages, while also improving your communication skills.

If you’re looking to cultivate a reading habit, join an online group for accountability and suggestions. If you feel like the physical act of reading isn’t your thing, take advantage of the plethora of audiobooks that are now available. It’s never too late to cultivate a habit that will give back to you tenfold.

10. Spend time in nature

Successful and ambitious people connect with nature to find inspiration and replenish their energy with outdoor activities that release endorphins. It can do your mind the world of good to get outside and breathe in some fresh air. This can also help you feel more productive and get rid of any sluggish energy you may be feeling.

Changing your scenery and taking a break outside can give you a better perspective when you go back to work. Listening to leaves rustling and birds chirping and feeling the sun on your skin can be huge mood boosters too.

One thing that all successful people have in common is that they are constantly seeking knowledge and growth. Even if you take on just one of these ten tips, you should start to notice the benefits to your mood, productivity, and eventually your success too. For more pointers like these, check out Five Tips to be a Better Leader and Productivity Tips for Road Warriors.