You just survived another day of meetings that could’ve been emails, battled the traffic (or your WiFi connection), and resisted the urge to throw your laptop out the window. Now what? If your first instinct is to doom-scroll through social media while questioning all of your life choices, STOP. You deserve better, queen.
But wait! Before you start lighting candles and pretending self-care isn’t just another thing on your to-do list, let’s talk about how to recharge after work without feeling guilty. Yes, I said it, NO GUILT ALLOWED. Your energy is precious, and so are you. Let’s get into it.
1. Permission to Do Absolutely Nothing
Society has convinced us that productivity is our only value. But guess what? You are still an absolute boss even when you’re horizontal on the couch doing nothing. Give yourself permission to rest. No guilt, no shame, just you and your comfy blanket.
2. Take a ‘Fake’ Commute
Miss the transition time between work and home? Try a fake commute. Take a walk around the block, listen to your favorite podcast, or just sit in your car and scream (therapeutically, of course). It’s your time to decompress, so use it wisely.
3. Move Your Body, But Make It Fun
This is NOT a call to hit the gym unless that genuinely excites you (and if it does, teach me your ways). Dance in your kitchen, stretch like a cat, or take an unnecessarily dramatic walk around your living room like you’re in a soap opera. Movement should feel good, not like a punishment.
4. Eat the Damn Snack
Stop overthinking it. If you want that cookie, eat it. If you’re craving a giant salad, go for it. Nourishing your body isn’t about rigid rules, it’s about listening to what you need, not what the internet says you should eat.
5. Indulge in a Guilty Pleasure (Without the Guilt)
Binge that reality show. Read the spicy novel. Play video games. Scroll TikTok. Whatever it is, enjoy it fully and without whispering “I should be doing something more productive.” Because no, you shouldn’t.
6. Say ‘No’ Without an Essay
Tired? Don’t want to go out? Just say no. No need to provide a dissertation on why you can’t make it to your coworker’s dog’s birthday party. “No” is a full sentence. Practice using it without guilt.
7. Romanticize Your Evening Routine
Pour your tea like you’re in a movie. Put on fancy pajamas. Pretend your skincare routine is a luxury spa treatment. You’re not just winding down, you’re living your best main-character life.
8. Mindlessly Stare at Something That Brings You Joy
Watch the sunset. Look at a fish tank. Stare at your dog while wondering if they understand the meaning of life. Giving your brain a break from constant stimulation is a form of self-care.
9. Do That One Thing Future You Will Thank You For
Tidy up a little, set out your clothes for tomorrow, or prep your coffee. Small acts of kindness for your future self can make a big difference. Plus, you’ll feel like you have your life together (even if you don’t).
10. Remind Yourself: You Are Enough
Your worth is not measured by how much you accomplish after work. You don’t need to hustle 24/7. Rest is productive. Joy is important. You are important.
Over to You: How Do You Recharge?
Now that you have permission to unwind without guilt, what’s your go-to way to relax after work? Drop your favorite way to recharge in the comments, I’m always looking for more ways to justify my love of doing absolutely nothing!