Things to Do After Work (Instead of Netflix) To Unwind

A list of 60 nice after-work hobbies

If you’re here to read all about things to do after work, keep reading, as you’re in the right place!

After a long day of hustling and bustling, isn’t it wonderful to come back home and unwind?

I know the urge to plop onto the couch and dive into a Netflix binge is real, but let me tell you, there’s a world of relaxing activities out there that can do wonders for your well-being and personal growth.

As someone who’s been on this journey myself, I’ve discovered some fantastic alternatives to Netflix that can help you decompress, expand your horizons, and truly nurture your mind, body, and soul.

In this blog post, we’re going to dive into a list of post-work unwinding activities, known as things to do after work, that go beyond the usual screen time.

These post-work activities have been my secret sauce for restoring my energy, igniting creativity, and fostering a sense of fulfillment.

Ready to say goodbye to the endless scroll and hello to personal growth? Let’s dive right in!

Without further ado, I’ll give you 60 fun ideas for what to do after work.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you click on a link and purchase something I recommend, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

15 activities to do with friends or family

1. Board game night

Gather your friends or family for a fun-filled board game night. Choose games that everyone enjoys, like classic Monopoly, strategic settlers of Catan, or hilarious dictionary.

It’s a fantastic way to bond, engage in friendly competition, and create lasting memories.

2. Picnic at the park

Pack a basket with delicious snacks, sandwiches, and refreshing drinks, and head to your local park for a relaxing picnic.

Bring a cozy blanket, play frisbee, fly a kite, or simply enjoy each other’s company amidst the beauty of nature.

3. Movie or book club

Start a movie or book club where you take turns choosing films or books to discuss.

This encourages lively conversations and diverse perspectives and helps you discover new favorites you might not have chosen yourself.

4. Cooking or baking together

When we talk about things to do after work, this is my favorite one. Get creative in the kitchen with your friends or family.

Choose a recipe everyone is excited about, from making homemade pizza to baking cookies from scratch. Working together fosters teamwork and yields tasty rewards.

5. DIY crafts

Embark on crafty adventures by trying DIY projects together. Paint, glue, and assemble items like picture frames, candles, or even tie-dye shirts.

Sharing your creativity enhances the experience and produces personalized keepsakes.

6. Outdoor sports

Engage in outdoor sports like frisbee or soccer. It’s a great way to stay active, enjoy some friendly competition, and soak up the sun.

Besides, it’s an inclusive activity that welcomes participants of all skill levels.

7. Karaoke night

Unleash your inner pop star with a karaoke night. Sing your heart out to your favorite tunes, whether you’re an aspiring vocalist or just looking to have a good laugh.

Remember, it’s all about having fun!

8. Hiking or a nature walk

Explore the great outdoors together by going on a hike or nature walk. Research nearby trails or parks and set off on an adventure.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with nature and each other.

9. Art jamming session

Even if you’re not an artist, an art jam session can be incredibly enjoyable. Get some canvases, paints, and brushes, and let your imagination run wild.

The process matters more than the final result, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

10. Potluck dinner party

Host a potluck dinner party where each person brings a dish to share. This way, you can savor a variety of homemade foods and showcase your culinary skills.

Sharing recipes and trying new dishes can lead to delightful conversations.

11. Volunteering together

Give back to your community by volunteering as a group.

Choose a cause that resonates with everyone, whether it’s helping at a local shelter, participating in a beach cleanup, or assisting at a food bank.

Working together for a noble cause strengthens your bonds.

12. Trivia or quiz night

Put your knowledge to the test with a trivia or quiz night. Create your own questions or use online resources to challenge each other’s wits.

Friendly competition mixed with learning makes for an engaging evening.

13. Escape room challenge

Experience the thrill of solving puzzles and cracking codes with an escape room challenge.

Many venues offer various themed rooms that require teamwork, critical thinking, and quick problem-solving skills to “escape” within a time limit.

14. Museum or art gallery visit

Explore cultural and artistic treasures by visiting a museum or art gallery. It’s a chance to admire masterpieces, learn about history, and spark insightful conversations about art.

15. Family photo album creation

Take a trip down memory lane by creating a family photo album. Gather old photos, reminisce about shared experiences, and arrange them in a visually appealing way.

This not only preserves precious memories but also strengthens family bonds.

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15 skill- and knowledge-building activities

1. Learning to play a musical instrument

Have you always dreamed of playing an instrument? Now’s the time to start.

Whether it’s a guitar, piano, or even a harmonica, there are plenty of online tutorials and beginner-friendly resources to help you get started.

2. Language exchange with a friend

If you’re interested in learning a new language, consider doing a language exchange with a friend who speaks the language fluently.

This way, you can practice speaking, listening, and even teaching each other.

3. Online coding tutorials

Dive into the world of coding with online tutorials.

Platforms like Codecademy and Khan Academy offer interactive lessons that gradually build your coding skills, making them accessible even for beginners.

4. Painting or drawing classes

This is another one of my favorite things to do after work. Unleash your inner artist by taking painting or drawing classes.

There are many online courses that guide you through techniques, color theory, and composition, helping you create impressive artwork.

5. Cooking workshops

Enhance your culinary prowess by enrolling in cooking workshops.

From basic knife skills to mastering complex dishes, these classes provide hands-on experience and useful tips for creating delicious meals.

6. Gardening and plant care

Discover the joys of gardening by learning how to care for plants. Start with easy-to-maintain options like succulents or herbs.

Not only does gardening provide a sense of accomplishment, but it also beautifies your space.

7. Writing short stories or poetry

If you have a way with words, try your hand at writing short stories or poetry.

Express your thoughts, emotions, and imagination through creative writing. You might surprise yourself with what you can create.

8. Photography lessons

Learn the art of photography with lessons that cover composition, lighting, and editing.

Whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR camera, honing your photography skills lets you capture moments beautifully.

9. Basic carpentry or DIY home projects

Develop your DIY skills by tackling basic carpentry or home improvement projects.

Start with small tasks, like building shelves or refinishing furniture. You’ll gain confidence as you see your creations take shape.

10. Meditation and mindfulness courses

Prioritize your mental well-being by taking meditation and mindfulness courses. These practices help reduce stress, improve focus, and promote a sense of inner calm.

11. Astronomy or stargazing

Explore the wonders of the cosmos by delving into astronomy or simply stargazing on clear nights.

Learn about constellations, planets, and celestial events to appreciate the vastness of the universe.

12. Digital marketing basics

In today’s digital age, understanding digital marketing basics can be valuable. Learn about social media, online advertising, and content creation to improve your online presence.

13. Knitting or crocheting

Discover the soothing art of knitting or crocheting. These crafts allow you to create cozy items like scarves, blankets, and hats. With practice, you’ll master different stitches and patterns.

14. Pottery or ceramics classes

Get your hands dirty with pottery or ceramics classes. Learn to mold clay into functional or decorative pieces and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of working with your hands.

15. Online financial literacy courses

Strengthen your financial knowledge by taking online courses on budgeting, saving, and investing. These skills are crucial for making informed financial decisions.

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15 activities for your physical and mental well-being

1. Yoga or pilates sessions

Embrace physical and mental wellness with yoga or pilates sessions. These practices improve flexibility, balance, and mindfulness, contributing to your overall well-being.

2. Deep breathing exercises

Set aside time for daily meditation and deep breathing exercises. They help improve focus and bring a sense of peace to your life.

3. Nature walks or hikes

Immerse yourself in nature by going for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes. Enjoy the fresh air, the natural beauty, and the opportunity to clear your mind.

4. Dancing to your favorite music

Shake off stress and uplift your mood by dancing to your favorite music. It’s a joyful way to stay active and release endorphins.

5. Swimming or aqua aerobics

If you have access to a pool, consider swimming or trying aqua aerobics. These low-impact exercises provide a full-body workout while being gentle on your joints.

6. Mindful journaling

What would this list of things to do after work be without journaling?

Engage in mindful journaling by writing down your thoughts, feelings, and reflections. This practice encourages self-awareness and helps you process emotions.

7. Attending a laughter yoga class

Laughter yoga combines laughter exercises with yogic deep breathing. It’s a unique way to boost your mood and have a good laugh with others.

8. Tai Chi or Qigong practice

Embrace the holistic benefits of Tai Chi or Qigong. These gentle movements improve balance and flexibility and promote inner harmony.

9. Mindful coloring or doodling

Engage in mindful coloring or doodling as a relaxing way to express your creativity. It’s a great activity for enhancing focus.

Here’s my favorite, very affordable mindfulness coloring book for adults.

10. Planting and tending a small garden

Cultivate a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature by planting and caring for a small garden. You can grow herbs, flowers, or even vegetables.

11. Running or jogging in a scenic area

Take advantage of scenic routes for running or jogging. It’s a fantastic way to stay fit while enjoying the beauty of your surroundings.

12. Bodyweight exercises at home

You don’t need a gym to stay active. Try bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and planks at home.

They help build strength and improve overall fitness. I personally love and use these resistance bands for working out.

13. Trying a new healthy recipe

Experiment with new healthy recipes in the kitchen. Cooking nutritious meals can be both enjoyable and rewarding for your well-being.

14. Online guided relaxation sessions

Explore online guided relaxation sessions that lead you through calming exercises and techniques.

15. Volunteering at a community garden

Combine physical activity with community service by volunteering at a local community garden. You’ll contribute to a greener space while staying active and socializing with fellow volunteers.

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15 activities for productivity

1. Setting up a home organization system

Boost productivity by creating an efficient home organization system. Declutter, categorize belongings, and establish designated spaces for different items.

2. Learning a new software program

Enhance your skill set by learning a new software program relevant to your interests or profession. Online tutorials and courses are readily available for a wide range of applications.

3. Creating a vision board

Visualize your goals and aspirations by creating a vision board. Gather images, quotes, and affirmations that represent your dreams and display them in a prominent place.

4. Mastering time management techniques

Improve productivity by mastering time management techniques. Use techniques like the Pomodoro technique or the Eisenhower matrix to prioritize tasks and work efficiently.

5. Decluttering and donating items

Streamline your living space by decluttering and donating items you no longer need. This not only creates a more organized environment but also benefits others.

6. Starting a blog or vlog

Share your thoughts, experiences, or expertise by starting a blog or vlog. It’s a creative outlet that can also lead to personal growth and opportunities for connection.

7. Developing a personal budget

Take control of your finances by developing a personal budget. Track expenses, set financial goals, and allocate funds wisely to achieve financial stability.

8. Planning a DIY home improvement project

Plan a DIY home improvement project to enhance your living space. Whether it’s repainting a room or creating custom shelving, hands-on projects bring a sense of accomplishment.

9. Setting achievable goals

Set specific, achievable goals to work toward. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your progress along the way.

10. Developing a daily routine

Create a structured daily routine that includes time for work, relaxation, exercise, and personal pursuits. A well-balanced routine contributes to improved productivity and well-being.

11. Learning touch typing

Boost your typing speed and accuracy by learning touch typing. Online typing courses can help you become more efficient in your digital communications.

12. Exploring online entrepreneurship

If you’re interested in entrepreneurship, explore online business opportunities. Whether it’s starting an online store or offering freelance services, the digital world offers many avenues for success.

13. Networking with professionals in your field

Expand your professional network by connecting with professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join online forums, and engage in meaningful conversations to learn and grow.

14. Learning graphic design basics

Acquire graphic design skills by learning the basics. Online platforms provide tutorials on design principles, tools, and techniques, empowering you to create visually appealing content.

15. Taking online courses to boost your career

Invest in your career’s growth by taking online courses that enhance your skills and knowledge. Continuing education can open doors to new opportunities and advancement.

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FAQ: Why is it important to do activities after work?

You know how after a day of school or work, we all need a breather, right? Well, it’s kind of the same idea for grownups too.

Taking time to do things you enjoy after work is like pressing a reset button for your brain and body. Here’s why it’s super important:

Relax and recharge

Imagine your phone battery running low—you wouldn’t want it to die, right? Your brain and body are like that, too.

Doing activities you love after work is like plugging yourself into a charger. It gives you the energy you need for tomorrow.

Say goodbye to stress

Work can sometimes bring on stress like a heavy backpack. Doing fun stuff you like—whether it’s reading, drawing, or even cooking—helps kick out that stress and replace it with happiness.

Boost your creativity

Remember when you built that awesome LEGO tower? Doing things you enjoy sparks your imagination. It’s like giving your brain a playground to come up with cool ideas.

Learn new things

Doing different activities after work, like playing an instrument or gardening, can help you learn new skills. It’s like adding new tools to your life’s toolbox.

Connect with you

You know how you talk to your best friend about everything? Well, spending time on things you love is like having a heart-to-heart chat with yourself. It helps you understand yourself better.

Sleep like a baby

Doing relaxing stuff before bed, like reading a book or listening to calming music, helps you sleep better. It’s like a lullaby for your mind.

Feel proud

Ever finished a puzzle and felt like a superhero? Trying out different activities and seeing yourself get better at them can give you a big boost of confidence.

What are your favorite things to do after work?