There are so many things you want to get done, but there are only 24 hours in a day. Despite this limitation, some people are able to accomplish a lot in their daily routine, while others get burnt out by the stress of completing everything they think they should be accomplishing.

Most likely there are activities or goals you’d like to be able to work into your current schedule, but you feel like you don’t have the time to complete them. The key to achieving your goals is practicing good habits. We all have good and bad habits that influence how we operate in our daily lives, but it’s up to you to nurture the practices that are beneficial to your life and learn how to eliminate the negative ones.

Take time off

The first step in learning how to make good habits is realizing that you can’t be working nonstop. Everyone needs downtime, and by giving yourself a much-needed break every now and again, you’ll be able to return to your goals feeling fully focused. Instead of working from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. every day without taking any breaks, shorten the work day by coming home early and doing something that fulfills you in a different way — like reading a book, listening to a podcast or exercising.

When developing a list of good habits you aspire to maintain, learning to take regular breaks should be at the top of it. By taking the time you need to mentally and physically refuel, you’ll find yourself feeling more energized and productive.

Spend quality time

When was the last time you enjoyed time with loved ones free from distractions? Think about it. Did you feel present when you were with friends and family, or were you instead worrying about your schedule, sending emails and checking your phone for texts from coworkers? One of the best habits to have is being able to spend quality time with those who are important to you. This allows you to connect with people you care about and realize how your goals fit into the context of your overall life.

Are you working nonstop just for yourself, or because you want to better the lives of your loved ones? If it’s the latter, you can work toward reaching this goal in another way by spending uninterrupted quality time with friends and family. This will make you feel more grateful for the things you have, so when it’s time to return to work, you’ve developed the habit of being mindful and appreciative of your life.

Do things you enjoy

There’s something admirable about waking up at 6:00 a.m. every day and jumping right into work mode. However, this schedule isn’t sustainable in the long run. To become the best version of you you can be, you have to cultivate good habits into your life, which includes doing things you enjoy.

Being well-rounded is essential to creating a life you love, and the first step is taking time from your busy schedule to do things that make you happy. Whether it’s listening to your favorite podcast on the train during your morning commute or reading a story with your children in the evening, you’ll find that by incorporating things you love into daily life, you’ll be better prepared to tackle your goals.

Forming good habits takes time, but if you’re willing to commit to teaching yourself valuable tools for happiness and productivity management, you’ll emerge as a more fulfilled and efficient person.