lesson 39: 3 ways a shutdown routine increases work-life balance

​In his book, Deep Work, Cal Newport, shares that a key way to reduce work-related stress is through a Shutdown Routine. This is a simple ritual that helps you provide a boundary between your work life and your personal life.
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A Shutdown Routine can vary, but the main idea is to set aside 15 minutes at the end of your workday to review your task list to check off what you’ve done and to note any loose ends. This assures your subconscious that you can forget about work because when you return, you won’t have forgotten anything.

You should also spend a few minutes closing browser tabs and straightening up your workspace, so that when you return, you’re ready to go. Newport even suggests using a “Magic Phrase” to officially mark the end of the day. His is, “Schedule shutdown, complete.”

Here are three ways a shutdown routine can help:
One, it Creates a boundary between your work life and your personal life. This is especially true if you work remotely, but is effective for any setting. Even if the end of your workday varies, a shutdown routine can help.
Two, it Increases productivity by reducing your cognitive load outside of work, which helps you recharge and prepare for the next day. Plus, whenever you do return to work, your workspace, tools and list are ready to go.

Three, a shutdown routine enhances your personal life because you are better able to focus on the people and things that matter to you outside of work. 
A shutdown routine is not a one-size fits all. Find what works for you and make it a part of your day. Your future self will thank you.