8 Ways That Help Me Stop Being in ‘Work Mode’ 

Whether you’re going to school or working (or both!), chances are you have a lot to deal with every day. There are always meetings, exams, assignments, projects and so much more. Sometimes it feels like the list never ends.  

Oftentimes, it can be difficult not to bring stress from school and work back home even when the school day or workday is over. Home should be a place of peace, relaxation and amusement. School and the workplace shouldn’t always be about hustle. School and work are important aspects of our lives, but it is also important to take a break. 

Here are some ideas that I use in my own life that help me avoid always being in work mode. 

1. Exercise: 

Doing any kind of exercise can help reset the mind after work or school. Exercise also helps to boost our mood. For example, if you feel stressed from schoolwork, you can go for a walk on break or at the end of the day to feel refreshed and get out of a ‘work’ mindset. 

2. Distraction:  

Switching your focus to other tasks that aren’t related to work or school can help you to stop thinking about your work to-do list. Focusing on other tasks that need to be done throughout the day such as cleaning, cooking or groceries can provide variety throughout the day. 

3. Socialize:  

Socializing with family, friends or neighbours can help you have fun and catch up with people you care about. At school or work, socializing with classmates or colleagues during breaks is important. This can help the workplace and school to become more than just a place to do work. 

4. Unwind: 

Taking a bath, drinking a cup of tea or reading a good book can help you decompress from the work or school day. Doing any of these things can also allow the stress of school or work to slowly diminish. Ultimately, taking part in any of these ideas will allow someone to relax and enjoy the present moment. 

5. Listen to music: 

Listening to different kinds of music, especially relaxing music, can help you slowdown from a busy work or school day. Listening to music also allows for enjoyment and fun which can help you get out of the feeling that you’re doing work or homework.  

6. Hobbies: 

Engaging with a hobby helps individuals to feel fulfilled and happy outside of work. This also allows for time for yourself, which can help foster personal growth and self-discovery. Some ideas include painting, reading and gardening.  

7. Volunteering:  

Volunteering allows for distraction and can help with overall happiness. Volunteering is a great way to make new connections and help others at the same time.  

8. Take Email breaks: 

Checking and sending emails are often part of the school day and workday. Taking a break from your inbox at the end of the day can help you focus on your evening routine rather than feel like you’re still at work or school. 

It can be hard to shake off the feeling of being in work mode all the time. These are some of the methods I use when I need to turn off ‘work mode.’ Hopefully, these can help you relax and let go of the stress of the day, too.