My 5PM Reset Ritual: Little Things That Help Me Log Off and Let Go

7 May

I used to be the kind of person who ended the workday by... not really ending it at all. Emails still open, tabs everywhere, Slack notifications popping up well into the evening. Even when I technically stopped working, my brain hadn’t quite got the memo. Sound familiar?

So I started experimenting with a proper 5PM reset ritual. Something simple. Something gentle. Something that helped me shift from work mode to real life mode- without the mental whiplash. And honestly? It’s been a game changer.

Here are the little things that now help me log off and actually let go at the end of the day.

1. Tidy space, tidy mind

I know it sounds cliché, but it works. Before I do anything else, I take 10 minutes to clear my workspace. Laptop shut. Notebook away. Coffee mug into the kitchen (finally). It’s my way of physically telling my brain, “Work’s done. You can relax now.”

Bonus: It makes the next morning feel so much calmer.

2. Step outside, even just for five minutes

There’s something about fresh air at golden hour that instantly takes the edge off. Even if I’m just popping out to the corner shop or standing on my balcony, it helps me reset. I’ll leave my phone inside and just be for a minute.

No agenda. No podcast. Just me, the breeze, and a few deep breaths.

3. Swap screen time for scent time

Lighting a candle or using a room spray has become my new go-to for signalling the shift from hustle to home. I usually go for something grounding—think sandalwood, cedar, or anything with a spa vibe. It's a little sensory cue that says, "OK, it's your time now."

Sometimes I’ll pop a shower steamer in too, just for the extra main character moment.

4. A funny show or podcast

I like to listen to a podcast or watch a show that has nothing to do with work. I opt for something funny to relax but motivational podcasts can be just as effective.

Here are my top 5 podcasts that made me believe in myself.

5. Journaling to debrief my brain

I used to carry my work thoughts into dinner, then into my sleep. Now, I do a quick 5-minute journalling session to offload. Nothing fancy—just a simple "What went well today? What do I want to leave here?"

It helps me draw a line under the day, instead of letting it bleed into my night.

Here are the best guided journals for women that could help you.

6. Change into cute lounge wear

One of the best ways to differentiate between work mode and rest mode is to change into something comfy and cute. I like to put on a matching activewear or loungewear set (depending on what I’m doing!).

I love the sets from Primark (for my UK girlies) or Bo+Tee. Opt for anything that makes you feel cute and comfortable.

7. One small joy, just for me

Lastly, I try to end the workday with one simple thing that’s just for me. Some nights it’s reading. Other nights it’s a slow scroll through Pinterest or trying out a new herbal tea. It doesn’t have to be productive. It just has to make me feel like myself again.

Final Thoughts

The 5PM reset isn’t about having a perfect routine or ticking every wellness box. It’s about creating a soft landing. A moment to check in, slow down, and remember that life exists outside your inbox.

So if your workday has a habit of lingering longer than it should, maybe try a few of these. Start small. Be gentle. And let 5PM be the start of something nourishing.

You deserve a proper off switch.

Ruby Layram

Ruby is the founder of The Elevate Edit. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Winchester and previously volunteered with Mind where she helped people to improve their mental health. As well as running The Elevate Edit, Ruby contributes regularly to a number of personal finance publications including The Motley Fool UK and MoneyMagpie UK.