We all have spare time, but how we use it makes a big difference. Successful people know that what they do outside of work is just as important as what they do on the job.
Instead of wasting time, they use it wisely—to grow, recharge, and set themselves up for even more success.
The good news? You don’t need to be rich or famous to do the same. Here are seven things successful people always do in their spare time—and how you can start doing them too.
1) They keep learning
Successful people never stop learning. Even when they’re not working, they’re reading books, listening to podcasts, or taking courses to expand their knowledge.
They know that growth doesn’t stop when school ends. The most successful people in the world are always looking for new ideas, skills, and perspectives that can help them improve.
And the best part? Learning doesn’t have to feel like work. If you’re curious about something, dive into it. Whether it’s business, history, psychology, or even a new hobby, expanding your mind in your free time will always pay off.
2) They prioritize their health
A few years ago, I used to treat exercise as an afterthought. If I had extra time, I’d maybe squeeze in a quick workout—but most of the time, I didn’t bother.
Then I started noticing a pattern. On the days I exercised, I felt more energized, focused, and productive. On the days I skipped it, I was sluggish, distracted, and less motivated.
That’s when I realized why so many successful people make health a priority in their spare time. Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a walk, or practicing yoga, taking care of your body isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and performing at your best.
Now, I make movement a non-negotiable part of my routine. And trust me, it makes all the difference.
3) They spend time with the right people
The people you surround yourself with have a huge impact on your mindset, habits, and success. In fact, research has shown that your income is likely to be the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
Successful people understand this, which is why they are intentional about who they let into their lives. They seek out relationships that inspire, challenge, and push them to grow.
That doesn’t mean they only network with high achievers—it means they invest their time in meaningful connections that bring value to their lives, whether personally or professionally.
4) They reflect on their goals
Success doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of clear goals and consistent action. That’s why successful people take time to reflect on where they are and where they want to go.
Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or simply taking a quiet walk, they regularly check in with themselves to assess their progress and adjust their plans if needed.
This habit keeps them focused, motivated, and aligned with their bigger vision. Instead of just going through the motions, they make sure every step they take is leading them in the right direction.
5) They make time to recharge
For a long time, I used to think that being productive meant always staying busy. If I had free time, I felt guilty unless I was doing something “useful.”
But eventually, I hit a wall. No matter how hard I worked, I felt drained, unmotivated, and even started resenting the things I once loved doing. That’s when I realized that rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Successful people understand that taking time to relax, unplug, and enjoy life isn’t wasted time. It’s what allows them to stay creative, energized, and ready to tackle new challenges. Whether it’s reading for fun, spending time in nature, or just doing nothing for a while, recharging is just as important as working hard.
6) They pursue their passions
Successful people don’t just work hard—they also make time for the things that excite and inspire them. Whether it’s playing an instrument, painting, writing, or even learning a new skill, they invest in hobbies that bring them joy.
These passions aren’t always related to their careers, but they help keep their minds sharp, reduce stress, and spark creativity. Some of the most successful ideas come when people are engaged in something they genuinely love doing.
Instead of seeing spare time as “empty” time, they use it as an opportunity to explore their interests and stay connected to what truly makes them happy.
7) They stay consistent
The difference between people who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent, luck, or intelligence—it’s consistency.
Successful people don’t just do these things once in a while; they make them a regular part of their lives. They show up, even when they don’t feel like it. They put in the effort, even when there’s no immediate reward.
Small actions, repeated over time, lead to massive results. That’s what truly sets them apart.
bottom line: success is built in the quiet moments
What people do in their spare time often says more about them than what they do at work.
Success isn’t just about big achievements—it’s shaped by the small, consistent choices made when no one is watching. The books read, the people surrounded by, the time spent reflecting or recharging—these habits quietly build the foundation for long-term growth.
Warren Buffett once said, *”The best investment you can make is in yourself.”* How that investment looks may be different for everyone, but one thing remains true: how you spend your free time has the power to define your future.
