There’s a huge difference between merely surviving each day and truly thriving.

This difference often comes down to how we end our days. Highly successful people understand this. They know that the key to starting each day with energy and positivity is how they unwind after a long day.

Unwinding is not just about flopping on the couch and binge-watching Netflix, but rather it’s about doing things that recharge and rejuvenate them, preparing them for another productive day.

So, what are these things that successful people do to unwind? I’m going to share nine of these with you, and perhaps you might find a few you’d like to adopt in your own routine.

1) They disconnect

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to feel like we’re always on. Emails, messages, notifications…the list goes on and on.

But highly successful people know that to truly unwind, they need to disconnect from all of that. It’s about finding a balance between being accessible and taking time for themselves.

Disconnecting doesn’t have to mean completely going off the grid. It could be as simple as turning off notifications, setting boundaries for when they check their emails, or even just putting their phone in another room.

This period of disconnection allows them to recharge and refocus. It gives them the mental space they need to relax and prepare for the challenges of the next day. 

2) They read

I’ve noticed that a common habit among highly successful people is reading. It’s not necessarily about reading to gain more knowledge or to stay up-to-date with the latest trends (although that’s often a beneficial side-effect). Instead, it’s about taking a moment to escape and relax.

For instance, I have a friend who’s built an impressive career in finance. He’s always on the go, but he makes it a point to read for at least an hour each night before bed. It doesn’t matter if it’s a gripping novel or an insightful non-fiction book; the act of reading allows him to separate himself from the stresses of the day and immerse himself in a different world.

For me, I’ve found that reading helps me unwind and de-stress after a long day. It’s like stepping into a different realm, away from the pressures of my day-to-day life. It’s a practice I’ve come to cherish and one I’d recommend to anyone looking to unwind effectively after a long day.

3) They exercise

Regular physical activity is a common thread among highly successful people. It’s not just to maintain their physical health, but it also serves as a great stress buster.

Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers, and also improve the ability to sleep, which in turn reduces stress. 

From running and yoga to high-intensity interval training, the type of exercise varies from person to person. But the underlying principle remains the same: moving the body helps clear the mind. So next time you’re looking for a way to unwind after a tough day, skip the couch and hit the gym or take a walk instead. It might just do wonders for your stress levels and overall well-being.

4) They pursue a hobby

Having a hobby is not just a way to pass time, it’s also a great way to unwind and recharge. Hobbies allow successful people to engage in an activity they enjoy, taking their mind off work and reducing stress levels.

Whether it’s playing a musical instrument, gardening, painting, or even cooking, engaging in a hobby provides an outlet for creativity and self-expression. It’s a chance to step away from the usual grind and do something that brings joy and satisfaction.

Therefore, don’t underestimate the relaxing power of spending time on your favorite hobby after a long day. It might seem like you’re just having fun, but you’re also giving your mind a much-needed break to rejuvenate and prepare for another busy day ahead.

5) They meditate

Amidst the hustle and bustle of a jam-packed day, finding a slice of serenity might feel like chasing a unicorn. But you know what? Successful folks have cracked the code—they swear by meditation.

Meditation is like a mental workout where you zone in on something specific—could be a thought, an object, or even just your breath. The goal is to dial down the chaos and amp up your focus and awareness.

And get this—even a teensy bit of meditation can work wonders. It’s like hitting the reset button on stress and anxiety, giving you better ZZZs and a laser-sharp focus. Thus, why not give it a shot? A few minutes of meditation could be instrumental in leveling up your mental game.

6) They spend time with loved ones

After a grueling day, there’s nothing like the solace and delight of being surrounded by those you hold dear. Successful individuals grasp this truth unequivocally. Despite their hectic schedules, they prioritize spending quality time with loved ones.

Be it a cozy family dinner, a heart-to-heart with lifelong companions, or simply snuggling with their partner, these moments of connection serve as poignant reminders of life’s true essence.

They offer more than just emotional solace; they serve as stress-relievers, fostering a profound sense of well-being. They’re the vital tonic that helps you unwind and recharge after a taxing day.

7) They practice gratitude

One practice that has significantly changed the way I unwind after a long day is gratitude. It might sound simple, but taking the time to reflect on the things I’m grateful for has had a profound impact on my overall well-being.

Every night before I sleep, I jot down three things that I’m thankful for that day. Some days it’s big things, like a successful project completion. Other days, it’s small joys, like a delicious meal or a warm sunset.

This practice helps me shift my focus from the stresses and worries of the day to the positives. It’s a gentle reminder that even on tough days, there are always things to be grateful for. The practice of gratitude can truly help you unwind and end the day on a positive note.

8) They get a good night’s sleep

Here’s the scoop: High achievers don’t compromise when it comes to a good night’s sleep. They recognize its pivotal role not only in maintaining physical health but also in optimizing mental sharpness and productivity.

Sleep isn’t merely downtime; it’s the body’s chance to recharge, repair, and consolidate memories. Skimping on sleep invites a host of issues like mood swings, lack of concentration, and decreased effectiveness.

Crafting a nightly ritual is a hallmark of successful people, guiding them seamlessly from the hustle of the day to restorative slumber. Whether it’s unwinding with a book, practicing mindfulness, or adhering to a consistent bedtime, they prioritize routines that promote quality rest.

Remember, your bedtime routine is as vital as your daytime activities. Prioritizing rest ensures you’re firing on all cylinders when morning comes.

9) They prioritize self-care

At the heart of unwinding and effectively managing stress is self-care. Successful people understand that to take care of their responsibilities and to perform at their best, they first need to take care of themselves.

Let’s set one thing straight: Self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself or indulging in luxuries. It’s about listening to your body and mind, understanding what they need, and taking steps to meet those needs.

It could be anything from taking a warm bath to clear the mind, enjoying a healthy meal, or simply spending some time in nature. The key is to do something that rejuvenates you and makes you feel good.

Final reflection: It all comes down to balance

Finding the sweet spot between unwinding and tackling stress head-on is key to mastering life’s balance.

Successful folks have this balance down pat. They get that being at the top of your game isn’t about relentless hustle—it’s about weaving work, relaxation, and fun into a seamless tapestry.

Whether it’s diving into a good book, centering themselves with mindfulness, indulging in a hobby, or soaking up quality time with loved ones, these aren’t just checkboxes on their agenda. They’re vital ingredients in their recipe for success and well-being.

So as we mull over these nine habits, let’s not forget: success isn’t just about the grind. Finding time to unwind is part and parcel of the journey. It’s those moments of stillness, self-care, and genuine happiness that keep us resilient and propelling forward.