10 Productive Things To Do During Your Annual Leave (Beyond Netflix & Chill)

First off — thank you, for the outpouring of love and thoughtful reflections you shared during the “Reflections That Heal” series left me humbled and inspired. You've shown that this community is more than just a gathering of readers — it's a space where healing, growth, and self-awareness truly thrive.

As the series unfolded, one truth became clear:
Healing isn’t only about looking inward — it’s also about what we choose to do next.

And that leads us here.

Recently, I asked a colleague how she planned to spend her annual leave. She smiled and said,
"Honestly? I’m catching up on those online courses I never have time for during work."

Her answer sparked something powerful in me.
Because let’s face it — most of us work tirelessly all year. We pour ourselves into deadlines, expectations, and responsibilities, hoping our annual leave will be the relief we desperately need.

This isn’t just a break from work —It’s a decision to pause. To breathe. To reclaim time.

But here’s the quiet trap:

We enter our break, burn through hours of streaming, mindless scrolling, or unstructured plans — and before we know it, we’re back at work… tired, unfulfilled, and wondering where the time went.

Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever asked yourself mid-leave:
“What did I actually do with my time?”
You’re not alone. And more importantly — you’re not stuck.

This post is your gentle wake-up call — a guide to turn your next leave into something nourishing, memorable, and truly refreshing. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, growth, or simply space to breathe, these suggestions will help you reclaim your time in meaningful ways.

Let’s explore 10 powerful (and surprisingly fun) things you can do during your annual leave — things that’ll leave you not just rested, but realigned with your goals, your values, and your best self.

Because your leave shouldn’t just be a pause — It can be a pivot.

10 Meaningful, Refreshing & Productive Things To Do During Your Annual Leave

1. Enrol in a Free Online Course 

• Use your time off to invest in yourself. Learn a new skill on platforms like Alison, Udemy, or Coursera.
• Many even offer certificates and diplomas at no cost. 
• Build your career or just explore something new that feeds your soul.

2. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About 

• Few things ground us like giving.
• Spend a day or two at a shelter, orphanage, or community project.
• The healing that comes from service? It's next level.

3. Travel (Even If It's Local) 

Even if it’s a local beach, a short drive, or just a change of scenery — travel refreshes the soul.
You don’t need a passport to feel peace.

• You don’t need a passport to escape.
• Visit a neighboring town, explore a local art gallery, or try a hidden nature trail nearby.
• New environments activate dormant parts of your soul.

4. Start That Passion Project 

• Have you been dreaming of launching a blog, business, or book?
• Your leave is the perfect runway. You don’t need to finish it — just start.

5. Declutter Your Space (and Mind) 

Decluttered Space. Clearer Mind: There’s something powerful about letting go — of mess, of noise, of what no longer serves.

• Clutter creates mental noise.
• Clear out your wardrobe, clean your phone gallery, and organize your files.
• You’re making room for who you're becoming.

6. Take a Home Wellness Retreat 

Design a simple retreat at home:

• Meditate & Reflection
• Try yoga
• Eat nourishing meals
• Go offline for a day

You’ll feel reborn.

7. Read Books That Reconnect You 

• Grab that novel, memoir, or self-help classic.
• Books aren’t just stories — they’re medicine, mirrors, and portals.

8. Learn a Fun Skill (Just Because) 

• Not everything needs to be monetized.
• Take a dance class, learn how to make moulding, or try painting.
• Let your inner child play.

9. Reconnect with People (Family) Who Matter 

Family & Friends: We often chase success, but forget that true wealth is found in shared laughter, warm hugs, and being fully present.

• Call that friend you miss.
• Take your parents out.
• Write a letter.

Use your time to nurture relationships that recharge you.

10. Reflect, Journal & Dream Big 

• Write about your growth.
• Create a vision board.
• Reflect more often for clarity
• Plan your next bold step.

Because your next chapter deserves intention.

For deeper reflections, follow Hillary's Mindscape for insights.

💡 Final Thought: Your Leave, Your Legacy

Your leave isn’t just time off — it’s a doorway.

It’s your chance to pause, heal, and become more of who you are meant to be.

When my colleague said she’d spend her leave finishing online courses, it reminded me:

Rest isn’t passive. It’s powerful.

🗣 Join the Conversation

👉🏽 What’s the most meaningful thing you’ve done during a vacation?
👉🏽 Which one of these will you try next?

💬 Head over to TikTok @hillary.mindscape and share your thoughts.
Your story might just inspire someone else.

P.S. Did you miss our Healing Series?

Don’t worry — you can catch up below:

• Reflections That Heal Ep. 1: Simple Steps to Clear Your Mind and Handle Daily Life’s Challenges
• Reflections That Heal Ep. 2: How Inner Peace Solves Outer Problems

Let this be your season of growth, joy, and powerful renewal.