Success isn’t just about working harder or staying longer at the office; it’s about how you choose to spend your free time. Have you ever wondered what separates successful individuals from the rest? Their productivity doesn’t stop when they clock out — they think of their free time as an investment in their growth, well-being, and future goals.
From enriching their minds to prioritizing their mental health, successful people employ habits backed by psychology to make the most of their downtime. Below, we’ll explore 10 things that successful individuals consistently do outside of their work hours — and how you can implement them too.
1) They Read for Personal Growth
When was the last time you picked up a book that wasn’t work-related? Successful individuals often turn to books to expand their horizons. Reading not only broadens your knowledge but also sharpens your ability to think critically.
Research published in Psychological Science found that reading, particularly fiction, enhances empathy and improves cognitive flexibility — skills that are essential for effective leadership and innovation.
How to Start: Dedicate 30 minutes each evening to reading books that align with your goals, whether they’re about personal development, entrepreneurship, or inspirational journeys. Consider titles like Atomic Habits by James Clear or Grit by Angela Duckworth to kickstart your reading routine.
2) They Engage in Physical Activity
Successful people know that a healthy mind thrives in a healthy body. Exercise isn’t just about staying fit; it’s a proven way to boost mental clarity, creativity, and stress management.
Studies from the American Psychological Association reveal that regular physical activity increases endorphins and reduces levels of cortisol (your body’s stress hormone). This is why many high achievers hit the gym or the trail after work—it resets their mindset and recharges them for challenges ahead.
How to Start: Find a workout that aligns with your interests, whether it’s yoga, spinning, hiking, or even a 15-minute HIIT session. Commit to just three sessions a week to begin reaping the benefits.
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3) They Practice Mindfulness
The demands of daily life can be overwhelming, but successful individuals find calm amidst the chaos by practicing mindfulness.
Mindfulness, through activities like meditation or journaling, trains your brain to focus on the present moment. Research by Harvard has shown that regular mindfulness practice reduces stress, increases attention span, and enhances decision-making skills. For those running a small business or launching a startup, this can be invaluable.
How to Start: Dedicate 10 minutes each morning to simple meditation using apps like Headspace or Calm. Feeling scattered? Try journaling to declutter your mind and focus your priorities.
4) They Nurture Their Relationships
No one succeeds in isolation. Successful individuals prioritize deep personal and professional connections during their free time to build rooted relationships.
Psychologists have found that having a strong support system improves emotional resilience. These connections are fundamental when dealing with challenges or celebrating victories.
How to Start: Set time aside to reconnect with friends, family, or mentors—whether through a quick phone call, grabbing coffee, or hosting a dinner at home.
5) They Pursue a Hobby
Successful people know that pursuing hobbies is essential for maintaining a balanced life and stoking creativity. Whether it’s painting, photography, or cooking, hobbies allow for self-expression and stress relief.
According to research in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, engaging in leisure activities makes individuals more engaged and efficient when they return to work.
How to Start: Think about hobbies you loved as a child or explore online classes to learn a new skill. Platforms like MasterClass and Skillshare offer fantastic options!
6) They Give Back
Giving back to the community isn’t just a selfless act; it’s an enriching way to find purpose. Successful individuals often donate their time, expertise, or financial resources to charitable causes.
Studies have demonstrated that altruism releases “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, creating a profound sense of contentment. Communal giving is also an excellent way to expand your network by connecting with like-minded individuals.
How to Start: Explore local volunteer opportunities or contribute to causes you deeply care about. Even small acts of giving, like mentoring a junior colleague, can make a difference.
7) They Set Aside Time for Self-Reflection
Having free time doesn’t mean mindlessly scrolling on your phone. Successful individuals often dedicate time to self-reflection to assess their goals and values.
Self-reflection encourages personal accountability and ensures that they’re always aligned with their overarching vision for success.
How to Start: At the end of each week, spend 15 minutes reflecting on recent decisions and accomplishments. Ask yourself questions like, “What went well this week?” and “What could I have done differently?”
8) They Intentionally Do Nothing
It may seem counterproductive, but doing “nothing” is an essential part of maintaining balance. From taking a catnap to sitting on the couch with no agenda, this downtime allows the mind to rest and recalibrate.
Sagmeister & Walsh’s famous “sabbatical theory” highlights how intentional breaks foster creativity and prevent burnout in the long run.
Sometimes, doing nothing is the most productive thing you can do.
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9) They Invest in Their Personal Development
Whether mastering a new software or attending leadership workshops, personal growth is a recurring theme for successful people. They understand that investing time and resources into self-improvement translates directly to professional growth.
How to Start: Block time for an online course, subscribe to a newsletter in your industry, or attend a networking event. Begin with platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning.
10) They Prioritize Rest
Last but certainly not least, successful individuals prioritize rest and recovery. Sleep fuels your body and brain, ensuring optimal performance during work hours.
Research conducted by the National Sleep Foundation shows that sleep deprivation can lower productivity and creativity—two qualities no entrepreneur can afford to lose.
How to Start: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep. Struggling? Maintain consistent sleep and waking times, and keep your bedroom distraction-free.
Final Thoughts: Success is a Journey
The habits you cultivate in your free time are just as important as the ones you follow in your business hours. From reading to giving back, these activities not only bring enjoyment but also sustain your personal and professional growth.
Remember, success is a continuous process, not a single destination. If you’re ready to integrate these habits into your life, start small. Choose one or two practices that resonate and add more as they become part of your routine.
Are you curious about transforming your work-life balance? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear how you’re approaching success on your terms!