Working remotely from home can blur the boundary between professional and personal life, making it hard to end your workday. Even when you step away from your computer, your mind might still linger on unfinished tasks. You may find yourself multitasking in the evenings, like scrolling through emails while trying to relax in front of the TV.

Developing a ritual to mark the end of your workday or workweek can help you disconnect and transition into leisure time. For example, keeping a notepad handy to jot down any work-related thoughts that arise can free your mind until the next morning. But beyond writing things down, it’s important to find activities that clearly signal the shift between work and rest. This could be going for a brisk walk, diving into a book, cooking a delicious meal, or immersing yourself in a favorite videogame. The key is to establish a habit that reinforces the thought: “The workday is officially done.”

The same approach applies to your weekends, especially if you sometimes feel tempted to work through them. Take inspiration from Sweden’s Friday tradition, known as fredagsmys. This family-oriented ritual typically involves gathering together on Friday nights to enjoy comfort food, play games, and watch TV. It’s a simple but effective way to reconnect after a busy week and set the tone for a restorative weekend.

By establishing small but meaningful rituals, you’re not only reclaiming your evenings and weekends—you’re prioritizing your well-being. Remember, stepping away from work isn’t unproductive; it’s a vital step in staying energized, focused, and successful in the long run.