We’re all wired differently. Some people have a much more difficult time recovering from an unpleasant workday. 

If you’re one of them, author and academic Dr. Caitlin Demsky advises detaching yourself from the negative energy by relaxing after work. It could be doing yoga, listening to music, or watching a movie, as long as it helps you sleep better. 

“Those who can take mental breaks from this fare better and do not lose as much sleep as those who are less capable of letting go,” Dr. Demsky said in an interview with Inc.

However, some days are heavier than others. They could be taxing enough to break you down emotionally. If you’re pushed to the brink, New York-based psychologist Dr. Junhong Cao advises allowing yourself to feel your emotions. 

In an article for her website, Dr. Cao encourages catharsis through a sad song, a heart-wrenching film, or journaling. If you need to cry it out, go for it.

Self-care isn’t selfish, and even the American Heart Association says so. Dr. Cao says it is most important during stressful times, like when you’re having an awful day at the office. Exercising after work could be a way to decompress and relax. 

For downtime, Dr. Cao urges focusing on interests. Take a break from social media and engage in your favorite hobbies, such as painting or playing an instrument.

Work-life balance is essential for longevity and sanity. Dr. Cao recognizes that it can be intimidating for some to exert that right, but you can start with small steps each day. 

Some excellent examples include limiting screen time, logging out from your work platform after a specific time each day, and avoiding checking emails on weekends. But this is probably the most important tip from Dr. Cao: “Saying ‘no’ more often and not people-pleasing as much.”

Work-life balance can also mean drawing a line between the two and keeping them apart. Bringing home your stressors won’t do you any good, and Dr. Cao advises making a conscious decision to “leave work brain at work.” 

According to her, even simple acts like washing your hands or changing clothes before leaving can help reset your mind before heading home to your family. 

“Remind yourself that you work to live, not live to work,” she said.

We’d like to hear from you now. What do you do after a forgettable day at work? How do you unwind and prepare for another day of the same grind? Let us know in the comments!