Lucas Graham
Success isn’t just about what you do; it’s also about what you avoid doing.
When it comes to weekends, successful people are intentional about steering clear of certain habits that could hinder their productivity and mindset for the week ahead.
According to psychology, how we spend our weekends can significantly impact our overall well-being and effectiveness.
So, what are these habits that successful individuals tend to avoid during their off-duty days?
Let’s take a closer look at the 7 common weekend behaviors that highly successful people almost always stay away from. Let’s dive in!
1) Sleeping in
We all cherish a good lie-in on the weekend, don’t we?
After a busy workweek, it feels like a luxury to ignore the alarm and stay in bed until noon.
However, the habits of successful people suggest that this may not be the best approach to weekend mornings.
They tend to stick to a consistent wake-up time, even on weekends.
This practice helps regulate the body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep quality and enhanced productivity.
While catching up on sleep sounds appealing, disrupting your sleep schedule can cause “social jet lag“.
This phenomenon can result in mood swings, fatigue, and decreased cognitive performance, ultimately affecting your productivity and well-being.
2) Spending too much time on screens
Living in the digital age means it’s easy to get lost scrolling through social media or binge-watching shows—I’ve been there myself.
But I’ve noticed a direct link between how much time I spend glued to screens on weekends and how productive I feel afterward. It turns out, research backs this up.
Excessive screen time, especially on weekends, can lead to mental fatigue, stress, and even disrupt our sleep.
Successful people recognize this and make a point to unplug during their downtime.
They understand the importance of stepping away from screens to recharge fully. It’s about finding balance.
So while I still enjoy a good Netflix binge, I’ve learned to mix it up with activities that refresh and energize me for the week ahead.
3) Neglecting physical activity
Sitting on the couch all weekend might seem tempting, especially after a tough work week.
But successful individuals know the importance of staying active, even on their days off.
Studies show that regular exercise can boost cognitive function, improve mood and energy levels, and enhance sleep quality—all factors that contribute to overall success.
You don’t have to hit the gym for an intense workout.
Incorporating some physical activity into your weekend routine can be as simple as taking a leisurely walk in the park or playing a friendly game of soccer with friends.
Take Richard Branson, for example. He attributes his daily exercise regimen to gaining an extra four hours of productive time each day.
That’s a compelling reason to consider adding some movement to your weekend plans!
4) Overloading the weekend with work
It’s easy to fall into the trap of using your weekend as a catch-up time for work. After all, it feels like two whole days to get ahead, right?
But productive people swear by the importance of taking a break.
Weekends are seen as valuable time to recharge and rejuvenate.
Continuously working through the weekend without taking some time off can lead to burnout and decreased productivity in the long run, as per research.
Instead of working non-stop, highly successful people often use their weekends to engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones, or simply relax and do nothing.
This balance helps them return to work on Monday feeling refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes their way.
5) Skipping meals
Weekends are often packed with activities, and it’s easy to forget to eat properly amidst all the excitement.
I’ve been guilty of this myself. In the rush to maximize my free time, I’ve sometimes skipped meals or opted for quick, unhealthy snacks.
But I’ve learned that neglecting nutrition on weekends can leave me feeling drained and low on energy.
When I started prioritizing regular, nutritious meals, I noticed a significant improvement in how I felt overall.
So, no matter how packed your weekend schedule is, make sure to make time for balanced, healthy meals.
Your body will thank you for it, and you’ll be better equipped to make the most out of your weekend activities.
6) Ignoring self-care
In our fast-paced lives, it’s so easy to overlook our own well-being. We tend to prioritize work and other responsibilities over our own needs.
But successful people understand that self-care is crucial for maintaining peak performance.
Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout and diminished productivity in the long run, as per Psych Central.
Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant.
It can be as simple as enjoying a quiet moment with a book, taking a leisurely walk in nature, practicing meditation, or even just unplugging from technology for a while.
By making time for yourself on weekends, you’re investing in your mental and physical health.
You’ll find that when you prioritize self-care, you’re better prepared to handle whatever challenges the week brings.
7) Neglecting relationships
Ultimately, success isn’t just about personal achievements or career milestones—it’s also about the connections we nurture.
Successful people get this and make sure not to neglect their relationships, especially on weekends.
Weekends offer a great chance to spend quality time with loved ones, catch up with old friends, or even meet new people.
These interactions not only strengthen bonds but also give a refreshing break from the usual work grind.
Humans are social creatures, and meaningful relationships contribute hugely to our happiness and success, as per research.
Thus, investing some of your weekend time in these connections isn’t just nice—it’s crucial. It’s an investment that can truly enrich your life in so many ways.
Fuel your week with wholesome weekend habits
Success isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey that requires balance.
The habits we’ve discussed aren’t just about what successful people avoid on weekends, but also about maintaining a healthy balance between work, rest, and leisure.
Think of your brain like a muscle—it needs rest to perform at its peak. Weekends are perfect for this.
Whether it’s sticking to a sleep schedule, cutting down screen time, staying active, avoiding work burnout, eating well, practicing self-care, or nurturing relationships—each contributes to your overall success.
Take a moment to assess your weekend routines. Are they supporting your journey towards success or holding you back?
Remember, our daily habits shape our lives—so make sure yours are propelling you towards the success you aim for.
