How-To Unplug from Work
In a hyper-connected world, separating work from personal life can feel nearly impossible. As careers advance, roles become more demanding and the pressure to stay “on” increases. That’s why being intentional about unplugging is a necessity for preventing burnout and protecting long-term well-being. Many organizations are now addressing this challenge through proactive workplace mental health programs that support recovery, boundaries, and sustainable performance.
For many executives, the work is never truly finished. That makes personal boundaries essential. Constant attachment to work erodes focus, reduces productivity, and increases the risk of chronic stress and health concerns. The strategies below are designed to help you unplug from work so you can return refreshed, focused, and fulfilled.
Delegate Responsibilities
Delegating responsibilities allows you to step away with confidence while empowering others to grow. Assigning meaningful work to capable team members creates development opportunities and reinforces trust. To ensure success, set clear expectations and provide access to resources or support while you’re away.
In some cases, scheduling check-ins in advance can help resolve time-sensitive issues without pulling you back into day-to-day operations. Effective delegation reduces mental load and supports leadership continuity — key factors in learning how employers can reduce stress in the workplace for both leaders and their teams.
Set Clear Expectations
Clearly communicating your time away helps prevent confusion and unnecessary interruptions. Let colleagues know when you’ll be unavailable, who to contact in your absence, and when you’ll respond.
Out-of-office messages, calendar blocks, and clear handoffs reinforce boundaries and allow you to disconnect without guilt. Avoiding frequent check-ins sets the tone for true time off and models healthy behavior for your team.
Focus on Self-Care
Unplugging from work creates space for self-care, which is foundational to long-term performance. Whether you prefer a structured plan or a flexible approach, prioritize habits that support physical and emotional health, such as movement, nutritious meals, quality sleep, and time outdoors.
Creative outlets like writing, music, or art offer stress relief and mental renewal. Exploring new interests, traveling, or volunteering can restore perspective and purpose. Practices like mindfulness meditation and breathwork further support emotional wellness in the workplace by improving stress tolerance and emotional regulation.
Prioritize What You Love
Time away from work is most restorative when it’s spent doing what genuinely brings joy. Creating routines such as enrolling in a class, training for a sport, or dedicating time to a personal project, helps ensure personal interests don’t fall to the bottom of the list.
Being fully present with family, friends, or pets strengthens connection and fulfillment. Visiting favorite places, from local parks to vacation destinations, encourages mental separation from work and helps restore balance.
Set Boundaries Around Technology
Technology makes constant connection easy, and disconnection harder. Auto-replies, notification silencing, and designated check-in times help protect personal time. If work communication is unavoidable, schedule it intentionally rather than allowing it to intrude throughout the day.
Creating tech-free moments, such as during meals or before bed, supports mental clarity and recovery. Clear expectations around availability help reinforce boundaries and reduce stress over time.
Strive Wellness Programs Help Alleviate Burnout
While individual strategies matter, organizations play a critical role in preventing burnout. Employers that invest in wellness opportunities empower employees to practice self-care consistently, not just during time off.
Strive’s corporate wellness programs combine education, instructor-led classes, engagement initiatives, and special events to support whole-person well-being. Our wraparound service model reduces internal administrative burden while encouraging sustained participation.
Book a discovery call to explore how Strive can help your organization reduce burnout, support emotional wellness, and build a healthier, more resilient workforce.
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