High-achievers aren’t just productive in their professional lives. They also make the most of their free time, in ways that might surprise you.
According to psychology, these successful people follow certain habits and rituals during their off hours that contribute to their overall achievements.
This isn’t about working 24/7, but rather about creatively utilising downtime in ways that promote growth, relaxation, and personal fulfilment.
Here are 10 things high-achievers consistently do in their free time.
1) They never stop learning
High-achievers understand the value of continuous learning. They don’t view their free time as an opportunity to switch off completely, but rather as a chance to absorb new knowledge and skills.
Psychologists agree that lifelong learning is key to maintaining mental agility, and it’s a habit that many successful people have in common.
This doesn’t mean they’re always buried in a textbook or glued to a webinar. They might be reading a book purely for pleasure, attending a cooking class or learning a new language – it’s about expanding their horizons and staying curious.
It’s not about being busy for the sake of it. High-achievers use their free time to learn in a way that’s enjoyable and enriching.
2) They prioritize physical health
For high-achievers, taking care of their body is as important as feeding their mind. They understand that physical health is a crucial element of overall success.
As a psychology enthusiast, I’ve seen this play out in my own life. I’ve always been an avid runner. No matter how busy my schedule gets, I always make time for a run. It’s not just about staying fit; it’s also a chance to clear my head and recharge my mental batteries.
High-achievers often have similar habits. They might go to the gym, practice yoga, or simply take a long walk in nature. This isn’t just about maintaining a healthy weight or looking good – it’s about fostering a sense of well-being that helps them tackle their goals with energy and determination.
3) They value connections
Despite their busy schedules, high-achievers often carve out time to foster meaningful relationships. They recognize the importance of a strong, supportive network in their journey to success.
Studies have shown that individuals with strong social connections tend to live longer, healthier lives. And it’s not just about quantity, but quality too. Deep, meaningful relationships can provide emotional support, broaden our perspectives, and contribute to our overall happiness.
High-achievers may use their free time to catch up with friends, spend quality time with family, or network with like-minded individuals. They understand that building strong relationships is an investment in their future, both personally and professionally.
Don’t underestimate the power of connection. It’s more than just socializing; it’s a key component of a successful life.
4) They set aside time for reflection
High-achievers don’t just rush from one task to the next. They understand the value of stepping back and reflecting on their experiences and progress.
Taking time to reflect is crucial for learning from our mistakes, celebrating our successes, and planning for the future. It helps us gain insights into our actions and decisions, and how they align with our goals.
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Whether it’s journaling at the end of the day, meditating in the morning, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, high-achievers often dedicate part of their free time to reflection.
Consider incorporating some form of reflection into your routine. It’s a simple habit that can yield powerful results.
5) They pursue their passions
For high-achievers, free time isn’t just about rest and relaxation. It’s also about pursuing their passions.
Engaging in activities that they are passionate about allows high-achievers to express themselves creatively, provides a sense of accomplishment, and makes their life more fulfilling.
It could be painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or even skydiving. The actual activity doesn’t matter as much as the fact that it’s something they truly enjoy and are passionate about.
Think about what makes you happy. What are you passionate about? Make time for those activities in your free time. It’s a great way to recharge your batteries and add more joy to your life.
6) They practice gratitude
Many high-achievers have one thing in common – a habit of expressing gratitude. They understand that appreciating what they have brings a sense of contentment and positivity in their lives.
Gratitude isn’t about dismissing difficulties or challenges. It’s about acknowledging the good in our lives and learning to find joy in the simplest things.
Whether it’s maintaining a gratitude journal, silently thanking someone in their thoughts, or expressing appreciation directly to a person, high-achievers often make gratitude a part of their daily routine.
Next time you find yourself with some free time, take a moment to reflect on what you’re grateful for. It’s a small act that can make a big difference in your overall outlook and attitude towards life.
7) They know when to disconnect
In our hyper-connected world, it can be challenging to truly disconnect. But high-achievers understand the power of occasionally stepping away from all the noise.
I’ve found this to be especially true in my own life. A few years ago, I realized I was spending too much time on my phone, even during my free hours. It was affecting my sleep and overall mood. I decided to set a ‘digital curfew,’ switching off all devices an hour before bed. The positive impact on my wellbeing was almost immediate.
Whether it’s setting boundaries for tech use, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness, high-achievers know the importance of unplugging and taking time for themselves.
Consider setting your own ‘digital curfew’ or finding other ways to disconnect from the digital world. Your mind will thank you for it.
8) They embrace boredom
Most of us dread the idea of being bored. But high-achievers see things differently. They understand that boredom isn’t necessarily a negative state to be avoided.
Psychologists have discovered that periods of boredom can actually spur creativity and problem-solving. When we’re bored, our minds are free to wander and daydream, leading to new ideas and perspectives.
High-achievers might use their free time to simply sit and think, allowing their mind to roam freely. They know that these moments of ‘doing nothing’ can sometimes lead to their most brilliant insights.
When you find yourself with nothing to do, don’t rush to fill the void. Embrace the boredom and see where your mind takes you. You might be surprised by the results!
9) They prioritize sleep
While some people might sacrifice sleep to get more done, high-achievers recognize the importance of a good night’s sleep.
Sleep is critical for our physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive function. It’s when our body repairs itself and our brain consolidates memories and processes information.
High-achievers understand that compromising on sleep can lead to decreased productivity, impaired decision-making, and a host of other problems. They make sure to get adequate rest and have a regular sleep routine in place.
If you’re trying to fit more into your day at the expense of sleep, you might want to reconsider. Prioritizing sleep could be one of the best decisions you make for your overall success.
10) They set personal goals
At the heart of every high-achiever’s success is a clear set of personal goals. They understand that setting and pursuing personal goals, outside of their professional life, is crucial for personal fulfillment.
Whether it’s running a marathon, learning a new language, or reading a certain number of books each year, high-achievers use their free time to work towards these personal goals.
They recognize that these goals not only provide a sense of purpose and direction but also help them grow as individuals. This habit keeps them motivated, focused, and constantly moving forward.
Take some time to set your own personal goals. It could be the key to unlocking your full potential and achieving your own version of success.
Final thoughts: It’s about balance
The essence of high achievement isn’t about relentless work or constant activity. At its core, it’s about balance.
Maintaining a healthy equilibrium between professional commitments, personal growth, and rest is the true hallmark of a high-achiever. They understand that success isn’t one-dimensional – it’s a blend of various aspects of life.
Whether it’s setting personal goals, embracing solitude, prioritizing sleep, or simply allowing themselves to be bored, high-achievers use their free time to nurture their overall well-being.
This holistic approach to achievement is not only conducive to professional success but also leads to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As you reflect on the habits of high-achievers, consider how you can bring more balance into your own life. Remember, the journey towards high achievement isn’t a race; it’s a marathon that requires endurance, patience, and above all, balance.
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