There’s a stark contrast between how successful people spend their weekends and how the rest of us often do.

The difference? Intent. Successful people make conscious decisions to use their weekends as a time for relaxation, recharging, and strategic planning for the week ahead.

These folks understand that what they do on their weekends directly impacts their productivity during the week. And trust me, they’ve got some habits worth borrowing.

Here are nine things successful people always do on weekends. Buckle up, because these could be game changers for you too.

1) They plan ahead

Successful people know the power of planning.

Weekends can often seem like a two-day vacation. But successful people understand that this time is precious and should be used wisely.

They don’t just let their weekends happen to them. Instead, they take control and plan how they want to spend their time. Whether it’s setting aside time for relaxation, scheduling a workout, or planning a family outing, they ensure their weekends are productive and rejuvenating.

And the best part? It’s not about rigid schedules or ticking off to-do lists. Instead, it’s about creating a roadmap for your weekend that gives you the freedom and flexibility to do what you love.

Planning doesn’t have to be restrictive. It’s about making conscious choices about how you spend your time. That way, when Monday rolls around, you feel refreshed and ready to take on the world.

2) They disconnect

In the digital age, it’s easy to be constantly connected. But successful people understand the importance of unplugging.

Let me share a personal example. A few years ago, I found myself constantly checking my emails over the weekend. The result? I felt burnt out and my productivity during the week nosedived.

Then, I decided to make a change. I started setting aside chunks of time during my weekends where I would completely disconnect from work-related communication. No emails, no calls, nothing.

And guess what? It made a world of difference. My stress levels decreased, I felt more relaxed, and come Monday, I was more productive and ready to hit the ground running.

Disconnecting over the weekend may feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you’re used to being always ‘on’. But trust me, it’s a habit worth developing.

It allows you to recharge and gives you the mental space to focus on other important areas of your life.

3) They prioritize exercise

Successful people often include some form of physical activity in their weekend routines. Why? Because exercise is not just good for the body, it’s also beneficial for the mind.

Research shows that regular physical activity can boost your mood, improve your concentration, and even enhance your creativity – all essential components of success. For example, a study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that people who exercised regularly reported better mental health and lower stress levels.

Whether it’s a morning run, a yoga session, or a bike ride in the park, successful people understand the importance of keeping their bodies active and their minds sharp.

When you’re planning your weekend, why not schedule in some time for a workout?

4) They indulge in a passion

Having a hobby or pursuing a passion is more than just a fun way to spend your weekend. It’s also a key habit of many successful people.

Whether it’s painting, gardening, hiking, or playing an instrument, indulging in a passion during the weekend can be a fantastic way to unwind and recharge. It allows you to take a break from your usual routine and immerse yourself in something you truly love.

Moreover, engaging in a hobby can also foster creativity, boost self-confidence, and improve problem-solving skills – all of which can contribute to your overall success.

Go ahead, carve out some time during your weekends to do what makes you happy. It’s not just about having fun, it’s about enhancing your well-being and personal growth.

5) They spend quality time with loved ones

Successful people understand the importance of balancing work and personal life. And weekends provide the perfect opportunity for this.

Spending quality time with family and friends isn’t just a great way to relax and unwind, it’s also crucial for maintaining healthy relationships. Whether it’s a family game night, a quiet dinner with their partner, or a fun outing with friends, successful people make sure to dedicate time to their loved ones.

Success isn’t just about professional achievements. It’s also about building and nurturing meaningful relationships. And creating space for these interactions during your weekends is a habit that can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

6) They take time for self-reflection

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to lose sight of where we’re going and why. Successful people, however, understand the importance of taking a step back to reflect.

Weekends provide the perfect opportunity to take a pause and introspect. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee, taking some time for self-reflection can be incredibly beneficial.

This quiet contemplation allows them to assess their progress, realign with their goals, and gain deeper insights into themselves and their journey. It’s a moment to recognize their achievements, learn from their mistakes, and prepare for the future.

Self-reflection isn’t about being hard on yourself; it’s about understanding yourself better. It’s about acknowledging your strengths, accepting your weaknesses, and paving the path towards continuous growth and self-improvement.

7) They catch up on sleep

Here’s something I struggled with for a long time: prioritizing sleep. I used to burn the candle at both ends, trying to squeeze the most out of each day. But over time, this habit began to take a toll on my health, mood, and productivity.

Successful people understand the power of a good night’s sleep. They know that rest is not just necessary for physical health, but it’s also crucial for mental clarity and optimal performance.

So they make it a point to catch up on sleep during weekends. They understand that to be their best selves, they need to give their bodies and minds the rest they deserve.

And let me tell you, ever since I started valuing my sleep more, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels, focus, and overall well-being. So if you’ve been skimping on sleep, consider this your reminder to hit the snooze button and get some well-deserved rest.

8) They set goals for the upcoming week

While weekends are for rest and relaxation, successful people also use this time to prepare for the week ahead. This includes setting goals.

Goal setting is a powerful process that provides a long-term vision and short-term motivation. By knowing precisely what you want to achieve, you’re better able to focus your efforts and quickly spot the distractions that can lead you off course.

Whether it’s personal goals like running a certain distance or professional ones like completing a project, having clear objectives for the upcoming week can make a huge difference in your productivity and sense of accomplishment.

Come Sunday evening, take some time to outline your goals for the next week. It will not only give you a sense of direction but also a sense of purpose as you start your week.

9) They prioritize self-care

Above all, successful people understand the importance of self-care. They know that to be at their best, they need to take care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Self-care can take many forms – from a relaxing bath to a quiet walk in the park, reading a good book, or even spending a few moments in silence. It’s about doing something that nourishes you and makes you feel good.

Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. So make sure to include some self-care activities in your weekend routine. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first, and everything else will fall into place.

The crux of the matter

Unraveling the habits of successful people is not just about emulating their actions. It’s about understanding the core principles that guide these actions.

Behind every weekend plan, every disconnection from digital noise, every hour spent in exercise or passion, there lies a conscious effort towards self-improvement and well-being.

This is perhaps the key takeaway from the lifestyles of successful people – they prioritize themselves. They understand that success is not just about professional achievements but a holistic sense of fulfillment.

Whether it’s catching up on sleep, spending quality time with loved ones, or setting goals for the upcoming week, each action is a testament to their commitment to personal growth and balance.

So as you ponder over these weekend habits, remember that it’s not about cramming your days with activities. It’s about making intentional choices that contribute to your overall happiness and success.

After all, as Anne Wilson Schaef rightly said, “Life is a process. We are a process. The universe is a process”. And perhaps, success lies in acknowledging and embracing this process in our everyday lives, starting with our weekends.