If you’re sufficiently devoted to your job, then you might find yourself thinking about work-related matters during your downtime. It’s easy to understand the value of striking a good balance between work time and leisure time – doing so will, in almost every case, allow you to get the most from both.
But switching off after a day’s work isn’t always easy. You might find yourself thinking about work-related problems, and struggling to truly unplug.
Why It’s So Hard to Switch Off
Modern life doesn’t make it easy to reclaim mental space for yourself. This goes especially if you’re on call, or you’re working from home. You might be tempted to check on a Slack server, or compulsively refresh your inbox. You might understand that the phone could ring at any time of day – which might give you pause before starting any leisure activity that will prevent you from answering it.
Create a Clear End-of-Day Ritual
The right routine at the end of the day will send a signal to your unconscious mind that it’s time to stop working. What this routine consists of might not matter. What matters is that you’re consistent, and that no work occurs after the ritual is completed. This might mean clearing your desk, putting your mouse and keyboard into a special spot to charge, or changing the lights in your room to a different hue.
Get Moving — Even Just a Little
The value of exercise is difficult to understate. If you can find a few minutes each day to go for a jog, then you might find that the stress of work naturally leaves you. If you can make exercise part of your post-work ritual, then the effect might be even more powerful.
Mindful Techniques That Actually Help
The practice of mindfulness-style meditation has become a go-to stress-buster for many executives. But this is something that you’ll get better at with practice – much like any form of physical exercise. Take a few minutes to observe the sensation of breathing – and to observe yourself becoming distracted, before returning to the previous object of your attention. If you have access to the right meditation app, then you might find getting into the habit of meditating much easier.
Digital Escapes That Don’t Drain You
The wrong kind of digital activity can be counterproductive, especially if you’re trying to create space between you and a screen-dependent working environment. But there’s no harm in playing a game or two, if you find that it’s an effective stress-buster. Whether it’s a digital crossword puzzle, a round of jackpot slots, or a classic arcade game, the right distraction can be a great way to take your mind off work.
The Power of Small Pleasures
Leading a rewarding working life needn’t mean living like a productivity-obsessed monk. Make sure that you take the time to reward yourself every now and again. Your monthly budget should set aside a little bit of cash for the treats that really add value to your day. Whether it’s an aromatic candle, a chocolate bar, or a subscription to your favourite streaming service, the right kind of small pleasure can be vital when it comes to setting your working mindset to one side.
