Success isn’t just about what you do when you’re on the clock. It’s also about how you spend your free time.
I’ve noticed that successful people tend to avoid certain activities during their downtime. They understand that time is a rare and valuable asset, and they use it wisely, even when they’re not technically “working.”
In this article, I’m going to share 10 things that successful people never do in their free time.
Let’s get started.
1) They don’t waste time on mindless activities
Successful people understand the value of time. It is the one resource we can’t regenerate.
In their free time, you won’t see them idly scrolling through social media or binge-watching a TV series without purpose. Instead, they choose activities that stimulate their mind, enrich their knowledge, or contribute to their well-being.
This doesn’t mean that they don’t relax or have fun. On the contrary, they do! But they do so intentionally, choosing pastimes that either refresh their mind, energize their body, or nurture their personal growth.
When you’re reaching for that remote, ask yourself this: Is there a more productive way I could be spending my free time? Remember, it’s not about being busy all the time. It’s about making conscious choices that align with your goals and values.
2) They don’t neglect personal relationships
I’ve noticed that successful people prioritize their personal relationships, even during their free time.
For example, I have a friend who is the CEO of a successful tech startup. Despite his busy schedule, he always makes time for his family and close friends. He told me once, “My work is important, but without my loved ones, success would feel hollow.”
He arranges weekly dinner dates with his wife and ensures he’s present for his kids’ soccer games and school events. He also maintains regular contact with his close circle of friends, even if it’s just a quick catch-up call.
From him, I learned that success doesn’t mean sacrificing your personal relationships. Instead, it’s about finding the balance between your professional ambitions and your personal life.
3) They don’t ignore their physical health
Successful people understand the connection between a healthy body and a sharp mind. Despite busy schedules, they make time for regular exercise, even if it’s just a quick morning jog or a 30-minute yoga session.
Research suggests that physical activity not only boosts our physical health but also improves cognitive function, reduces stress, and enhances mood.
Instead of seeing exercise as a chore to be squeezed in, successful people view it as an essential part of their daily routine. It’s not just about staying fit; it’s about optimizing their overall performance.
4) They don’t let learning stop
Successful people are lifelong learners. They don’t view education as something that ends with a diploma or a degree. They seize every opportunity to expand their knowledge and learn new skills.
In their free time, they might dive into a good book, listen to an informative podcast, or enroll in an online course. The subject matter isn’t always directly related to their field of work. It could be anything that piques their interest or broadens their perspective.
By constantly learning, they keep their minds sharp, stay relevant in a rapidly changing world, and cultivate a sense of curiosity and open-mindedness that fuels innovation and growth.
5) They don’t get sucked into negativity
Negativity – whether it’s in the form of toxic relationships, self-doubt, or pessimistic news – is a trap successful people consciously avoid. They understand that negativity can drain their energy and hinder their progress.
Instead, they surround themselves with positivity. This might involve spending time with uplifting people, practicing mindfulness to cultivate a positive mindset, or consuming content that inspires and motivates them.
Success, after all, isn’t just about achieving goals; it’s also about maintaining a positive attitude that helps you overcome challenges and bounce back from setbacks.
6) They don’t forget to give back
One thing that successful people never lose sight of is the importance of giving back. They recognize that their success is not just an individual achievement, but also a resource that can be used to benefit others.
Whether it’s mentoring a young professional, volunteering in their local community, or donating to a cause they care about, successful people often use their free time to make a positive impact.
It’s a heartfelt reminder that success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s also about making a difference in the world around you.
7) They don’t ignore their mental health
A few years back, I went through a phase of intense work pressure. I was so focused on proving my worth that I ignored the signs of burnout. Eventually, it caught up with me, and my performance started to decline.
I learned the hard way that mental health is as important as physical health. Successful people understand this. They acknowledge their feelings and emotions, practice self-care, and seek help when needed.
During their free time, they might meditate, pursue a hobby, or even see a therapist. They know that maintaining their mental health is crucial for staying productive and achieving their goals.
8) They don’t shy away from solitude
In our constantly connected world, it might seem strange to deliberately seek out solitude. But successful people understand the value of spending time alone.
Solitude gives them a chance to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with their inner selves. It can be a powerful tool for fostering creativity, boosting productivity, and promoting emotional well-being.
While it may seem odd to ‘schedule’ alone time in your free hours, it can actually be one of the most beneficial things you can do for your personal and professional growth.
9) They don’t procrastinate on important tasks
We all have tasks we’d rather not do, but successful people understand the danger of ignoring these responsibilities. They know that procrastination can lead to stress, lower quality work, and missed opportunities.
In their free time, they tackle these tasks head-on instead of pushing them aside. Whether it’s planning for the next day, sorting out finances, or even doing household chores, they use their downtime effectively.
By addressing these tasks promptly, they create a more organized and productive environment for themselves. This not only reduces stress but also frees up more time for their passions and interests.
10) They don’t disregard their passions
Successful people never lose sight of what truly matters to them. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, hiking, or any other passion, they make time for it.
Their passion fuels their creativity, renews their energy, and reminds them of who they are beyond their professional identity. It’s not just a hobby; it’s an essential part of their life that keeps them grounded and fulfilled.
Success isn’t defined by work alone. It’s also about living a life true to yourself and doing what brings you joy.
