Try to incorporate as many steps into your life to improve your leisure time. But don’t fret if there are some steps you don’t have time to fit in. Living a good life is about doing your best. It’s about acknowledging what behaviors and habits support your happiness and well-being. And it’s about understanding what behaviors and habits don’t. The aim of this guide is to draw your attention to what matters and what to prioritize in your life.

Our company, GoodLiife, helps individuals design, create and manage a balanced, healthy, happy and fulfilling life. Our flagship application, GoodLiife Score™, provides a self-diagnostic and balanced life scorecard that manages and tracks your Health, Finances, Purpose, Career, Growth, Relationships, Leisure, Home Environment, Life Vision, Life Goals and Mindset.

For the GoodLiife Score assessment, our goal is to get you to a place where you strongly agree with the following statement:

This first chapter details 10 steps that will help you detach from work. Having this detachment allows you to recharge. It also gives you time to focus on other aspects of your life that are as important.

• • Step 1 – Take Regular Work Breaks:

Taking time off from work is crucial to prevent burnout. This time is essential for rest and rejuvenation to improve productivity and creativity. According to research, those who take 11 or more vacation days are 30% more likely to receive a raise at work. Your primary goal today is to request time off from work to benefit your well-being.

• • Step 2 – Establish Consistent Work Hours:

Consistently working beyond your allocated work hours can lead to burnout. It will disrupt your work-life balance, and increase stress levels. Plus, working overtime will set an unsustainable precedent at your workplace. It’s important to have specific times when you start and stop working. If you can’t finish your tasks during those times, you might need to reassess your workload.

• • Step 3 – Cultivate a Hobby:

Nurturing a hobby will help you maintain a balanced work-life dynamic. It provides a healthy outlet for relaxation and personal fulfillment. This reduces stress and contributes to improved well-being. Having a hobby will also maintain a sense of identity beyond your professional role.

• • Step 4 – Arrange Social Nights:

Dedicate at least one evening in your week to spend time with friends and/or family. You could even consider combining this with your hobby. Your loved ones can offer valuable social support during stressful work events. Plus these nights give you a refreshing break from your daily routine.

• • Step 5 – Unplug on Weekends:

Disconnect from work on the weekends. Set clear boundaries, turn off work-related notifications, and avoid work-related tasks. This practice is crucial for recharging and reducing stress. Again, you want to achieve that balance between work and living. This will help you feel refreshed and more productive when returning to work on Mondays.

• • Step 6 – Plan Weekend Getaways:

Plan short trips on the weekends to break away from your usual routine. Chill out, discover new spots, and make special memories with your loved ones. To keep these trips budget-friendly, find affordable places to stay and things to do. You can try camping, staying with friends or family, and choosing low-cost activities like hiking. Try to organize a weekend trip every month or every other month.

• • Step 7 – Optimize Work Breaks:

Make it a point to take your lunch break. Use this time to get outside or engage in active pursuits like a walk with a colleague. Take a small break every hour – this is especially important if you work sitting down and on a computer. Use your breaks for non-work activities. Examples include meditation or enjoying a quick coffee with a colleague.

• • Step 8 – Establish a Healthy Morning Routine:

Create a healthy morning routine. Journal to write down what you’re thankful for, meditate, and have a healthy breakfast. If you have time, you can also read or exercise. Don’t let your phone or work messages disturb you during this time .

• • Step 9 – Establish a Relaxing Evening Routine:

Set aside part of your evenings to prepare a wholesome meal. Eat your dinner without the distractions of the TV or phones. Mealtimes are opportunities for meaningful conversations with family and friends. If you live alone, eliminate digital distractions so you can focus on the flavors of your meal. Next, disconnect from your phone and work notifications one hour before bedtime. Dedicate this time to activities like reading, practicing gratitude, meditating, and self-care.

• • Step 10 – Embrace a Digital Detox: 

Distance yourself from digital devices and online activities for a designated period. Having reduced screen time will help you unwind and escape the pressures of a digital life. This will enhance your focus and reduce stress. It’s advisable for individuals to schedule at least a three-day digital detox annually.