Ever wondered what highly successful people do when they’re not working?
I did too—and it led me on a deep dive into their habits.
What I found was eye-opening: their free time isn’t just about unwinding—it’s about fueling their success in unexpected ways.
From activities that spark creativity to those that build resilience, these habits aren’t just interesting—they’re actionable. In this article,
Here are 7 unique things I’ve learned that successful people do in their downtime.
And by adopting these habits yourself, you can help you level up your own life!
1) Reading for growth
The first habit of highly successful people that I discovered was a simple one, but incredibly impactful: they read, a lot.
But they don’t just read random information or read for entertainment.
Successful people typically read books that help them grow – intellectually, emotionally, and professionally.
Whether it’s biographies of other successful people, self-help books, or literature on their field of work, their choice of reading material is always geared towards personal or professional development.
They prioritize learning above all else, even in their free time.
The habit of reading for growth has been a game changer for me.
It’s like having a mentor at your fingertips, ready to share their wisdom and insights whenever you need them.
If you’re looking to emulate the success of high achievers, start with this habit.
Dedicate a part of your free time to read something that will help you grow.
It doesn’t have to be much – even 15 minutes a day can make a big difference over time.
2) Embracing solitude
The second activity that caught my attention was the habit of spending time alone.
Highly successful people seem to appreciate and leverage the power of solitude.
At first, this surprised me. I used to equate success with constant networking and socializing.
But the more I delved into their habits, the more I realized how solitude played a crucial role in their success.
When I started carving out time for solitude, I found a space where I could reflect on my goals, my progress, and even my setbacks without any distractions or outside influences.
It was during these quiet moments that I could truly listen to myself, process my thoughts and come up with innovative ideas.
Spending time alone became a tool for self-discovery and personal growth.
It was no longer about being lonely but about creating a safe space for introspection and creativity.
Now, I make it a point to spend at least 30 minutes each day in solitude – whether it’s going for a walk alone or just sitting quietly in my room.
3) Prioritizing physical health
The third activity that most successful people incorporate into their lives is prioritizing their physical health.
They understand that a healthy body is the foundation of a healthy mind.
I used to think that working longer hours meant more productivity and success.
But all it did was leave me feeling exhausted and burnt out. I was far from being the picture of health or success.
When I started observing the habits of successful people, I noticed a common thread.
They all had some form of physical exercise incorporated into their daily routines.
Whether it was hitting the gym, going for a run, or practicing yoga, they made sure to take care of their physical well-being.
This realization was a wake-up call for me.
It made me reassess my own habits and prioritize my health.
I started small, with just 15 minutes of exercise every day.
Over time, I increased it to an hour. Not only did this help me get in better shape physically, but it also improved my mental clarity and energy levels.
Now, I can’t imagine starting my day without a good workout.
It’s become an integral part of my routine – a non-negotiable.
4) Fostering a growth mindset
Another common activity among highly successful people is fostering a growth mindset.
This means they view failures and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as definitive judgments on their abilities.
I remember reading a study conducted by psychologist Carol Dweck, who introduced the concept of growth versus fixed mindsets.
In her research, she found that individuals with a growth mindset are more likely to:
- Embrace challenges
- Persist in the face of setbacks
- See effort as the path to mastery
This study resonated deeply with me. I realized that my own fixed mindset was holding me back from reaching my potential.
So, I made a conscious effort to change my perspective.
I started viewing challenges as opportunities for learning instead of threats to my competence.
I stopped fearing failure and started seeing it as a stepping stone to success.
This shift in mindset didn’t happen overnight, but over time, I noticed significant improvements in my attitude and performance at work.
Now, whenever I face a setback, I remind myself of Dweck’s study and focus on what I can learn from the situation.
Embracing a growth mindset can truly be a game changer.
It empowers you to keep pushing forward even when things get tough.
5) Investing in relationships
The fifth activity that successful people prioritize during their free time is investing in their relationships.
They understand the value of strong, supportive networks – both in their personal and professional lives.
For a long time, I was so focused on my work that I neglected my relationships.
I didn’t realize the toll it was taking on my overall well-being.
But as I started observing the habits of successful people, I saw that they always made time for their loved ones. They understood the importance of having a solid support system.
Taking a cue from them, I started making conscious efforts to nurture my relationships.
I made it a point to spend quality time with my family and friends, even amidst a busy schedule.
I also started networking more within my professional circle.
Instead of viewing it as a chore, I began seeing it as an opportunity to learn from others and build mutually beneficial relationships.
I realized that success isn’t just about individual achievements but also about the connections we make along the way.
Now, investing in relationships is non-negotiable for me.
It’s not just about networking or socializing but about genuinely connecting with people and learning from each other.
6) Practicing gratitude
A common habit among successful individuals that surprised me was the practice of gratitude.
I must admit, I used to be someone who consistently focused on my goals and what I wanted to achieve next.
While this made me ambitious, it often left me feeling dissatisfied and restless.
Inspired by the practices of successful people, I decided to start a gratitude journal.
Each day, I jotted down three things I was grateful for.
It could be something as simple as a good cup of coffee or a positive interaction with a colleague.
Initially, it felt forced. But over time, it became a habit.
And slowly but surely, I started noticing a shift in my mindset. I was happier, more content, and my stress levels significantly reduced.
Practicing gratitude has since become an integral part of my daily routine.
It serves as a reminder that while ambition is important, appreciating what we already have is equally vital for our overall well-being.
So if you’re constantly chasing after success and forgetting to appreciate the journey, take a step back and reflect on what you’re thankful for.
7) Taking time off
The last activity might seem counterintuitive in a list of habits of highly successful people, but it’s crucial: taking time off.
Successful people understand the importance of rest and recuperation.
They know that constant work without breaks leads to burnout and decreased productivity.
There was a time when I equated long hours with productivity and success.
I’d push myself to work non-stop, thinking that taking a break was a waste of time.
However, all it did was leave me feeling drained and uninspired.
Contrary to what I believed, successful people aren’t workaholics.
They value their down time and use it to rest, recharge, and come back stronger.
Inspired by them, I started scheduling regular breaks into my day.
I also made it a point to take at least one day off a week where I completely disconnect from work.
And guess what?
My productivity soared. I was more focused, creative, and motivated than ever before.
Taking time off wasn’t just beneficial for my mental health but also for my performance at work.
It might seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks can actually make you more productive in the long run.
So here’s a practical tip: Start by incorporating short breaks into your day.
It could be as simple as a 5-minute break every hour. Use this time to stretch, get some fresh air, or just relax.
Also, try to have at least one day a week completely free from work-related activities.
Conclusion
Success isn’t just about what you do at work—it’s about how you live your entire life, including your downtime.
These seven unique activities show that the most successful people are intentional with every moment, using their free time to recharge, grow, and stay inspired.
Now it’s your turn. Which of these habits will you try?
Whether it’s embracing a creative hobby, seeking new challenges, or prioritizing mindfulness, small changes in how you spend your free time can lead to big results in your life.
