The accomplishments of successful people don’t just come during work hours.
Those who achieve big things in life and get where they want to go use all of their time wisely, even the hours and days that they’re not at the office or fulfilling other responsibilities. While they appreciate the importance of downtime, they also know that to get ahead, they have to be smart about how they utilise their free time. Here are just some of the things they fill this time with that get them even further ahead.
1. They read regularly.
Successful people often turn to books, articles, or research to expand their minds. Whether it’s personal development, industry insights, or fiction for relaxation, reading helps them stay informed and inspired. It’s a simple habit that keeps their brains sharp and their perspectives broad. Reading also helps them stay updated on trends and gives them new ideas they can apply to their personal and professional lives.
2. They exercise to stay healthy.
Source: Unsplash Regular exercise isn’t just for physical fitness; it helps clear the mind, reduce stress, and boost energy levels. They know that staying active improves their mood and productivity. Whether it’s running, yoga, or weight training, they make time to move their bodies. They understand that physical well-being directly impacts mental clarity and overall resilience.
3. They network and build relationships.
Networking doesn’t always mean stuffy business events. They use their free time to nurture both personal and professional connections. They meet for coffee, attend events, or simply check in with people. Strong relationships can open doors and offer valuable support. These connections also provide inspiration, guidance, and opportunities for collaboration.
4. They pursue hobbies and passions.
They understand the importance of having interests outside of work. Whether it’s painting, playing music, gardening, or photography, engaging in hobbies helps them relax and refuel creatively. These activities often provide a sense of achievement that’s separate from their careers. Pursuing passions also helps maintain a healthy work-life balance.
5. They spend quality time with loved ones.
Balancing work and personal life is key to long-term success. They make sure to prioritise family and friends during their downtime. They know that strong relationships provide emotional support and joy, helping them stay grounded and connected. They value the memories and bonds created through shared experiences and make time for them regularly.
6. They learn new skills.
Successful people use their free time to develop new skills or sharpen existing ones. Whether it’s learning a language, taking a cooking class, or mastering new software, they love to grow. Continually learning keeps them adaptable and ready for new challenges. They know that investing in their skills can lead to future opportunities and personal fulfilment.
7. They practise mindfulness and reflection.
Activities like meditation, journaling, or simple quiet time help them process their thoughts and emotions. Taking a bit of reflection time helps them gain clarity, manage stress, and stay focused. It’s a way to stay in tune with themselves and their goals. They know that self-awareness is crucial for making thoughtful decisions and maintaining emotional balance.
8. They volunteer or give back.
Many of these people dedicate their free time to causes they care about. Whether it’s mentoring, fundraising, or community work, giving back adds meaning to their lives. They find joy and perspective through helping other people and contributing to their communities. Their commitment to service keeps them humble and connected to the world around them.
9. They plan for the future.
They use downtime to set goals, review their progress, and strategise for the future. That doesn’t mean constant work; it means thoughtful planning. They take time to visualise where they want to go and create steps to get there. This habit helps them stay focused, motivated, and ready to tackle new opportunities.
10. They get enough rest and sleep.
Burnout isn’t on their agenda. They value rest and make sure to recharge their bodies and minds. Whether it’s getting quality sleep, napping, or taking time to relax, they know that rest fuels productivity and creativity in the long run. They see rest as an essential part of maintaining consistent high performance.
11. They travel to broaden their horizons.
Source: Unsplash Exploring new places and cultures gives them fresh perspectives and inspiration. Travel helps them break out of routine, learn about the world, and return with new ideas. They see travel as an investment in their personal growth and creativity. Exposure to new environments and cultures often sparks innovative thinking and fresh insights.
12. They unplug from technology.
They know the importance of taking breaks from screens and notifications. They use their free time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the real world. Having a break helps them reduce stress, be more present, and improve their mental well-being. Regular tech breaks also help them avoid burnout and maintain focus when they return to work.
13. They spend a good amount of time in nature.
Time spent in nature can be incredibly restorative. They often go for walks, hikes, or outdoor activities to clear their minds. Being in nature helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and provide a sense of calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether it’s a quiet park or a challenging mountain trail, nature offers them a chance to recharge.
14. They reflect on their accomplishments.
In their free time, successful people take moments to acknowledge how far they’ve come. Reflecting on their achievements helps them stay motivated and grateful. It’s a chance to appreciate their hard work and celebrate progress before tackling new goals. It also helps them build confidence and maintain a positive mindset.
