Daily rituals and clear boundaries help workers switch off, experts say

Technology, hybrid working and a culture of presenteeism have blurred the line between work and leisure, making it harder for many people to switch off, according to research and workplace experts. Business in the Community (BITC) found 55% of employees feel pressed to respond to calls or check emails outside work, while high workloads drive two in five to work overtime.

Researchers and psychologists say psychological detachment — refraining from job tasks and mentally disconnecting during non‑work time — is important for wellbeing and job performance. Sabine Sonnentag of the University of Mannheim notes empirical studies show a positive relationship between detachment and performance, and Ball State University found that leaving important tasks unfinished is linked with poor detachment in the evening.

Practical steps suggested in the piece include a consistent end‑of‑day ritual, creating physical separation from work, clearing your desk, and scheduling after‑work commitments. Studies cited also identify effective recovery strategies and workplace drivers. A 2023 Griffith University study singled out getting active, socialising, and engaging in hobbies as helpful for post‑work recovery, while Sonnentag says the mental experience during leisure — such as relaxation, mastery and a sense of autonomy — matters more than the specific activity.

Key Topics

Business, Psychological Detachment, Presenteeism, Griffith University, Ball State University