The Power of a Post-Work Ritual

Even when the workday is technically over, it can be hard to leave work behind in your mind. You might get stuck ruminating about something a colleague said, feeling stressed about your never ending to-do list, or tossing over possible ways to solve a problem. It can be hard to set these thoughts aside, but getting space from them can actually help you return to work more refreshed and productive. Further, when you’re distracted, it’s much harder to connect with your loved ones at home, and to savor the precious time you have together as a family.

A simple post-work transition ritual can help. It signals to your brain: set work aside – be present now.   

With repetition, your body starts to recognize the cue, and it becomes easier to mentally detach from work and transition into home life.

To come up with a ritual that works for you, make a list of things that make you feel good in a few seconds or minutes, and pick one as your daily “work is done” ritual.

A few ideas:

• Create a simple mantra like “That’s all for today”

• Organize and clean your workspace

• Write down your top 3 priorities for tomorrow

• Change out of work clothes and into home clothes

• Play a specific “work is over” song

• Savor a warm cup of tea

• Take a short walk outside

• Do deep breathing exercises

• Light a candle and play relaxing music

• Journal for ten minutes

• Have a quick check-in call with a friend

• Take a shower

• Play mindfully with your child or pet 

Your ritual helps you leave work mentally, not just physically, so you can show up at home present for the everyday moments – like sitting down for a connected family dinner and truly being there.