High-achievers just seem to have it all figured out, don’t they? Not only do they excel at work, but they also make the most of their free time. Ever wonder what makes them tick?

Psychology offers some intriguing insights into their habits. Turns out, their recreational activities are more than just hobbies; they’re also strategies for success.

Let’s get started. 

1) They spare time for reading

High-achievers have a secret weapon, and it’s not what you might think. It’s a good old-fashioned book.

Psychology tells us that successful people are often avid readers. They understand the importance of lifelong learning and see books as a vital source of knowledge.

Think about it. Bill Gates, one of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs, is known to read 50 books a year. That’s almost a book per week!

Reading not only broadens your perspective but also enhances your understanding of various subjects, making you more adaptable and informed.

Just remember, it’s not about reading for the sake of reading. High-achievers are selective with their books, ensuring they’re learning something valuable from each one.

2) They invest in personal growth

This one is near and dear to my heart. High-achievers, like myself, recognize that personal growth isn’t an option; it’s a necessity.

There was a time in my life when I felt stuck in a rut. Work was going well, but I felt like I was only moving in circles. So, I started investing my free time in personal growth activities, like attending workshops, signing up for online courses, and even seeking mentorship.

The transformation was astounding. Not only did it make me more confident and self-aware, but it also presented opportunities I would have otherwise missed.

Psychology supports this too. High-achievers understand the importance of constant learning and self-improvement. They’re not afraid to step out of their comfort zones to pick up new skills or gain different perspectives.

3) They prioritize exercise

High-achievers know that a healthy body fosters a healthy mind. They understand the myriad of benefits that regular exercise brings, not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally.

Did you know that regular physical activity can improve mood, boost memory, and enhance creativity? That’s why you’ll often find high-achievers hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga in their free time.

Exercise is not just about staying fit for these individuals; it’s about ensuring they’re at their best physically and mentally to tackle whatever challenges come their way. 

4) They indulge in creative pursuits

Creativity isn’t just for artists and musicians. High-achievers, regardless of their field, understand the importance of nurturing their creative side.

Whether it’s painting, writing, playing an instrument, or even cooking a new recipe, engaging in creative activities can stimulate the brain and foster problem-solving skills. It’s a way to let off steam and express oneself outside the realm of work.

Moreover, creativity can lead to innovation. It’s no coincidence that some of the most successful people in the world are also known for their creative hobbies. Don’t shy away from exploring your artistic side – it could be your secret weapon to achieving more.

5) They value downtime

Here’s a bit of a surprise. High-achievers, believe it or not, know the importance of doing absolutely nothing. They understand the value of downtime and aren’t afraid to take a breather.

It’s easy to think that to achieve more, you need to do more. But sometimes, the best thing you can do is to simply relax and recharge. It could be taking a nap, meditating, or just sitting quietly with your thoughts.

This downtime allows for reflection and introspection, which can lead to better decision-making and increased productivity in the long run. Even the fastest car needs a pit stop every now and then. High-achievers understand this and make sure to schedule regular pit stops in their journey to success.

6) They nurture relationships

Success isn’t just about money or power. For high-achievers, it’s also about the people they share their journey with. They understand the importance of nurturing relationships, be it with family, friends, or colleagues.

In my own experience, I’ve found that the most rewarding moments often come from connections with others. Whether it’s a shared laugh with a friend, a heartfelt conversation with a family member, or even a successful collaboration with a colleague – these are the moments that truly matter.

High-achievers know this and make time to foster these connections. They understand that relationships are like plants – they require care and attention to flourish. And in return, these relationships provide support, joy, and companionship – all essential elements for a fulfilling life.

7) They practice self-care

Life can get hectic, especially when you’re striving for success. I’ve had my fair share of late nights, early mornings, and endless to-do lists. And while hard work is a crucial part of achieving success, so is looking after yourself.

Self-care isn’t just about spa days and indulgent treats. It’s about taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can be as simple as getting enough sleep, eating healthily, or taking a moment to breathe when things get tough.

High-achievers understand the importance of self-care. They know that they can’t pour from an empty cup and ensure they take the time to refill their own before helping others. Because at the end of the day, you can’t be at your best if you’re not feeling your best.

8) They embrace failure

Here’s something you might not expect. High-achievers don’t shy away from failure; in fact, they embrace it.

Failure, as uncomfortable as it may be, is a powerful learning tool. It provides valuable lessons and insights that success often cannot. It’s a stepping stone towards improvement and ultimately, success.

High-achievers understand this. Rather than letting failure discourage them, they see it as an opportunity for growth. They analyze their missteps, learn from them, and use this knowledge to better their future attempts. So next time you face a setback, remember, even the highest achievers have been there. The key is to keep going.

9) They set personal goals

High-achievers are always aiming for something. They set personal goals, not just professional ones. It could be mastering a new skill, running a marathon, or even reading a certain number of books each year.

These personal goals provide a sense of direction and purpose outside of work. They create a sense of accomplishment that fuels their drive and motivation.

But it’s not just about setting goals; it’s about the journey towards achieving them. The challenges faced, the progress made, the skills learned – these all contribute to personal growth and ultimately, success.

10) They remain curious

Above all else, high-achievers never lose their sense of curiosity. They constantly question, explore, and seek to understand the world around them. This curiosity fuels their drive to learn and grow, keeping them not only engaged but also ahead of the curve.

Knowledge is power. By staying curious, high-achievers continue to expand their knowledge base, opening doors to new opportunities and ideas. 

Keep asking questions, keep exploring, and most importantly, never lose your sense of wonder. That’s the true hallmark of a high-achiever.

Final thoughts: Success lies within

At the heart of high-achievers’ habits and actions is a profound understanding of themselves. They realize that success isn’t solely about relentless work and hustle; it’s about balance, growth, and most importantly, self-awareness.

They value their time alone, not just for relaxation, but as a platform for self-improvement – to learn, create, reflect, and dream.

Whether it’s Bill Gates reading voraciously, Oprah Winfrey practicing daily meditation, or Elon Musk exploring his passion for innovation, these high-achievers harness their free time to fuel their ambitions.

So next time you find some free moments in your day, remember this: How you spend your free time can be a significant determinant of your success. Perhaps it’s time to pick up that book you’ve been putting off, hit the gym, or even take a moment to do nothing at all.

After all, as Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act but a habit.”