Struggling with "Turning Off" After Work: 5 of My Best Pieces of Advice

After a long day at work, it can be challenging to switch off and relax. Many of us find ourselves constantly thinking about work, checking emails, or feeling guilty for not being productive. If you're struggling with "turning off" after work, you're not alone. In this blog post, I'll be sharing five of my best pieces of advice to help you unwind and disconnect from work.

1. Create a Routine

One of the most effective ways to transition from work mode to relaxation mode is by establishing a routine. Set a specific time to finish work each day and stick to it. This will give you something to look forward to and help you mentally prepare for the transition. Consider incorporating activities like spending time with loved ones into your routine or engaging in your favorite leisure activities to help you disconnect from work and focus on other aspects of your life.

2. Set Boundaries

It's essential to set boundaries between your work life and personal life. Clearly define your work hours and communicate them to your colleagues and clients. Let them know when you're available and when you're not. Avoid checking work emails or taking work-related calls outside of your designated work hours. By setting these boundaries, you'll create a clear separation between work and personal life, allowing you to fully relax and recharge. It also may be helpful to play around with your phone settings to put your phone in "do not disturb" or silence your email notifications.

3. Engage in Hobbies

Engaging in hobbies is a great way to shift your focus away from work. Find activities that you enjoy and make time for them regularly. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or cooking, playing with your dog, hobbies provide an opportunity to engage in something you love and take your mind off work. I personally enjoy cooking, watching TV with my partner and spending time with my fur babies. By immersing yourself in activities that bring you joy, you'll find it easier to disconnect from work and enjoy your personal time.

4. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can help you stay present and focused on the present moment. Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. You can also do things like take a "reset shower" after work or change out of your work clothes immediately to help you reset and be more present. I personally do the latter, I like to change into comfy clothes and get "un-ready" so I can switch gears to leisure time. These practices can help calm your mind, reduce stress, and improve your ability to relax after work. By practicing mindfulness, you'll be able to let go of work-related thoughts and be fully present in your personal life.

5. Create a Digital Detox

In today's digital age, it's easy to be constantly connected to work through our devices. Take regular breaks from technology and create a digital detox for yourself. Set specific times during the day when you disconnect from your phone, computer, and other devices. Use this time to engage in activities that don't involve screens, such as reading a book, going for a walk, or having a conversation with a loved one. By disconnecting from technology, you'll give yourself the space to relax and recharge without the constant reminders of work.

I know this is hard for me, but a digital detox does not need to be super strict. The purpose is just to disconnect and focus on the present moment, so if that means going on a walk and listening to music (screen time?) then that is totally up to you. The goal is to make you less stressed, so personalize these suggestions to your own lifestyle.

Struggling to "turn off" after work is a common challenge, but with the right strategies, you can find a better balance between work and personal life. By creating a routine, setting boundaries, engaging in hobbies, practicing mindfulness, and taking regular digital detoxes, you'll be well on your way to disconnecting from work and enjoying your personal time. Remember, it's important to prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

Dreading work and waiting on the weekend? Here are some tips on staying motivated during the work week!

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