Have you ever wondered how some people always seem to be making progress?

Whether it’s in their career, personal growth, or relationships, these individuals consistently move forward while others feel stuck. What’s their secret? 

Well, it might surprise you to learn that their weekends often hold the key.

I’ve spent years studying successful people and experimenting with my own habits, and one thing is clear: weekends aren’t just for rest—they’re also an opportunity. The way you spend those two precious days can either propel you toward your goals or leave you playing catch-up.

In today’s post, we’re diving into five key weekend habits that help people stay on track and keep moving forward in life.

Let’s jump in!

1) They plan ahead

The first habit that set successful people apart was their ability to plan their weekends ahead of time.

Now, I’m not saying they have a rigid, minute-by-minute schedule. Rather, they have a clear idea of what they want to accomplish and how they want to spend their time.

This is well backed up by research. As Socio-economist Randall Bell found, “Those who maintain both a calendar and to-do list are 289 percent more likely to be millionaires, as compared with those who have no real set schedule.” 

I can’t attest to the benefits firsthand, too. 

Before I stumbled upon this habit, my weekends were often unstructured and aimless. I’d wake up late, spend hours scrolling through social media or watching TV, and before I knew it, the weekend was over and I hadn’t achieved anything of substance.

But once I started planning my weekends, everything changed.

Whether it was setting aside time for a hobby, planning a catch-up with friends, or scheduling some much-needed downtime, having a plan gave me a sense of purpose. It ensured that I used my time wisely and productively.

Take a moment on Friday afternoon to map out your weekend. Decide on the key things you want to achieve, whether it’s personal growth, relaxation or social connection.

Trust me, you’ll be surprised at how much more fulfilling your weekends become when they’re guided by purpose and intention.

2) They use some time for learning

Did you know that Bill Gates still reads 50 books a year? 

He’s not alone, either. You’ll find that almost all successful people are avid learners—and it’s no coincidence.

Why is this such a common thread among high achievers? 

Because staying ahead in a constantly changing world requires growth, adaptability, and fresh ideas. Continuous learning keeps your mind sharp and helps you navigate new challenges with confidence.

Weekends offer the perfect opportunity to dive into this habit. Whether it’s reading a book, listening to a podcast, watching a documentary, or taking an online course, setting aside time to learn something new can pay dividends in both your personal and professional life.

This habit isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about building a mindset of curiosity and growth. When you prioritize learning, you’re not only enriching your weekends but also investing in a better version of yourself.

So, grab that book you’ve been meaning to read or tune into a podcast that piques your interest. Even just an hour or two over the weekend can spark insights that move you forward.

3) They prioritize physical health

This is such a huge one.

I’ve always been a fan of exercising, and for most of my life, it’s just been part of my daily routine.

However, when I was starting Hack Spirit, there was a period when I got so busy that my exercise schedule fell by the wayside. And boy, did I notice the difference.

I became more sluggish, had less energy, and found it harder to stay focused and productive. It was a wake-up call.

Successful people know the importance of prioritizing physical health, and it’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and performing at your best. Dr. Bell’s research backs this up, too. He writes, “Those who exercised, even for 15 minutes a day, dominated statistically in every single measure of success.”

A brisk walk, a yoga session, or a quick workout at home can boost your energy, improve your mood, and set a positive tone for your weekend.

When you make physical health a priority, you’re not just improving your body—you’re giving your mind the fuel it needs to keep moving forward.

4) They disconnect to reconnect

In today’s hyperconnected world, it’s easy to feel like we need to be on 24/7—checking emails, responding to messages, scrolling through social media.

But successful folks know that true progress often comes from stepping away and taking time to reconnect with themselves and the people who matter most.

This doesn’t mean they vanish for the entire weekend, but they make it a point to create boundaries. Maybe it’s putting their phone on “Do Not Disturb” for a few hours, going for a tech-free walk, or spending quality time with family and friends without distractions.

Why does this matter? Because constantly being plugged in can drain your mental energy and leave you feeling scattered. Taking intentional breaks from technology gives your mind the space it needs to recharge and focus on what truly matters.

The next time you find yourself mindlessly scrolling or glued to your email, consider hitting pause. Use that time to reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, or even nature. It’s a small habit that can have a big impact on your mindset and productivity.

5) They reflect and strategize

The final habit of those who constantly progress in life is taking time to reflect and strategize.

Before integrating this habit into my weekend routine, I was always in a constant state of action, never pausing to consider if my efforts were yielding the desired results.

But once I started dedicating a part of my weekend to reflection and strategizing, I found that my actions became more purposeful and effective.

I started with just 30 minutes every Sunday evening. I’d sit quietly with a cup of tea and review my week. I’d reflect on what worked, what didn’t, and how I could improve. This practice gave me a clear idea of my progress and helped me strategize for the upcoming week.

This simple habit can be incredibly powerful. It provides an opportunity to learn from your experiences and plan your path forward.

Conclusion 

Adopting these weekend habits won’t instantly catapult you to success, but they will set you on a path of consistent progress and personal growth.

And you might be surprised at how small changes can lead to significant results over time.

So as you approach your next weekend, ask yourself: “What can I do to make this weekend a stepping stone towards my goals?”

The answer might just change your life.