After a long day in the office or on Zoom, finding the right way to unwind isn’t just a luxury anymore. It’s essential. In the same way a great coworking space supports productivity, our routines after hours are what help us reset, refocus, and stay motivated in the long run.
So, what actually works when it comes to decompressing after a day of emails, meetings, and mental battles? We asked professionals across industries how they unplug, and why their routines work.
A Clear Divide Between Work and Life
When you work remotely or in a flexible space, the lines between your job and your personal time can blur fast. That’s why some swear by a physical separation between a work zone and an unwind zone. Hear from Nick Trierweiler, who can testify to this.
“I don’t work in the same place where I enjoy the rest of my life. Designating an office, section of a room, or a coffee shop where work happens is a clear way to separate work from the other parts of life.” – Nick Trierweiler, studynearme.com
Nick found that without that separation, it felt like the stress of the workday just followed him around. Whether it’s a coworking desk, a home office, or your favorite corner café, creating a dedicated work zone can make your off-hours feel like your time again.
Mindful Movement, That Isn’t Just the Gym
You don’t need a full-on gym session to reset your mind. Even a walk around the block or folding laundry can shift your energy and help you decompress.
“I personally find that a walk or similar outdoors time helps when it comes to unwinding after work… It can provide a good transition from ‘work brain’ to home time.” – Soumya Mahapatra, CEO, Essenvia
“Working out and chores both are a form of meditation that serves as a transition into the latter part of my day.” – Nick Trierweiler
From movement to mindfulness, the simple act of changing your pace, physically or mentally, can go a long way in helping you feel more grounded and less burnt out.
Creative Outlets That Recharge Your Brain
Unwinding doesn’t always mean shutting your brain off. For some professionals, it’s about shifting from productivity mode into something more exploratory and creative.
One professional turns to drawing and journaling as a form of end-of-day reflection.
“It feels very freeing to react to ideas that I may not be able to pursue in the moment but could inspire coming projects. Not only is writing by hand an effective way to help me decompress, it also builds up a reservoir of ideas I can access later.” – Josh Qian, LINQ Kitchen
Josh’s ritual shows how creative outlets, especially ones that aren’t tied to deadlines, can help us relax and refuel simultaneously.
What Actually Works When It Comes to Unwinding?
We’re all wired differently, but here’s what our contributors agree on:
- Change Your Environment: Even if it’s just moving to another room, a shift in scenery helps signal the end of the workday.
- Move Your Body: From workouts to walking the dog, physical activity acts like a mental reset button.
- Express Yourself Creatively: Journaling, sketching, or any low-pressure creative practice can help release stress and spark new ideas.
The best way to recharge after work isn’t always about doing less, it’s about doing something different! Find a routine that works for you, and you’ll not only feel better after hours, you’ll show up stronger the next day too.