If you’re reading this, it’s time to leave your “lazy girl” era behind. Yes, we all struggle with finding the energy to be productive after a long day of work. But when we do, the sense of accomplishment is unmatched. So, how do you make this a habit? Here are some practical strategies to help you stay productive after a long day of work.

Use your commute wisely

Instead of wasting travel time, try incorporating productive activities into your commute. You can listen to educational or motivational podcasts, catch up on the news, or make important calls, if it’s appropriate.

Focus on what matters most

After a long day, you might want to just do simple tasks, but I suggest tackling the hardest ones first. Whether it’s household chores or exercise, doing the challenging tasks right away can boost your motivation and make the rest of your evening more enjoyable. Prioritizing these tasks while you’re still energized helps create a smoother, more rewarding routine.

Limit distractions

As a writer, I’m always online, which strains my eyes. After work, I’ve realized that limiting distractions is crucial for staying productive. Social media can easily pull me in and keep me from tackling important things like chores or exercise.

To make the most of my evenings, I set boundaries by putting my phone away. This way, I can get things done and enjoy my downtime without feeling guilty.

Practice self-care

Yes, self-care is productive! Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant—like a pricey spa day or a last-minute getaway. It can be as simple as dedicating time to take care of your skin.

Prepare for the next day

I know I’m not alone in this: many people feel anxious at night, wondering what tomorrow will bring. If that sounds familiar, try picking out your outfit the night before.

You can also use this time to pack your bag, making sure you have everything you need for the day ahead. I usually take a few minutes to check my schedule or jot down a quick to-do list. This helps me feel more prepared and less stressed, so I can wake up ready to tackle the day.

Make time for a hobby

Revisiting hobbies every night can help calm your mind, even if they keep you busy. The key is to choose activities that you enjoy and that don’t feel like a chore. Instead of focusing on responsibilities or improving skills for work, aim for pure enjoyment. Consider trying hobbies like reading a book, learning a new language, yoga or stretching, or even painting! Try to discover what relaxes you the most.

Meditate

Deep breathing is an important practice for me, and I really believe in its benefits. Taking a few moments to focus on my breath helps clear my mind and reduce stress. It’s amazing how just being present can make such a difference in my day.

And believe it or not, I also pray. It’s my way of connecting with something bigger and reflecting on my thoughts. I take time to express gratitude for the day, which helps me appreciate the little things and find peace. These simple practices keep me grounded and calm.

Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep after a long day is crucial. Feeling tired at work is a clear sign that you need to prioritize rest. After work, I focus on unwinding and creating a relaxing atmosphere, like dimming the lights, reading a book, or listening to relaxing music (I recommend listening to Gracie Abrams or Suki Waterhouse).

Sleep isn’t just about resting; it’s about restoring my energy and focus. When I get quality sleep, I wake up feeling refreshed and allowing me to be more productive and engaged in my work.

Stop the doomscrolling – use your downtime wisely!