The only thing worse than impossibly short weekends is arriving back at your desk Monday morning with nothing to show for it. But you can make the most of every Saturday and Sunday with these free-time-maximizing tips!
1. Save chores and errands for weekday nights.
It’s tempting to use your weekend to catch up on your personal business of laundry, grocery shopping, and vacuuming. But doesn’t that feel just as much like work as being at the office? Make a commitment to tackling that pile of dishes and beyond after work on weekdays. It might take a bit of planning and discipline, but your weekend will feel extra rejuvenating when you pair it with a clean house and an empty to-do list!
2. Plan something new and out of the ordinary.
Instead of the same old movie night or dinner out, plan a fun activity that feels more like an event than a standby. Whether it’s seeing a play, getting together with friends for a backyard BBQ, treating yourself to a spa treatment, going to a museum, or singing karaoke, breaking weekend monotony and giving yourself something to look forward to makes any weekend more memorable.
3. Take a day trip.
A change of scenery is part of what makes vacations so relaxing and fulfilling. Trick yourself into thinking you’ve taken one by going on a mini staycation. A trip to the beach, local hike, or exploration of a nearby city will do wonders for your spirits. Pack a bag with vacation essentials, like a cute swimsuit and poolside accessories, if that’s what it takes to make your mind believe you’re somewhere else.
4. Get a good night’s sleep.
Nothing wastes a Saturday like sleeping past noon, but nothing feels worse than facing Monday under-rested. Strike a balance by hitting the sack at a decent hour on Friday and waking up only slightly after your usual alarm. The extra hours will feel luxurious and you’ll still have the whole day ahead of you!
5. Put yourself in the vacation mindset.
Monday will be here soon enough; don’t waste any precious weekend moments worrying about work. Do whatever it takes to prevent getting sucked into business-related thoughts: Don your most weekend-friendly outfits, don’t check your email if you can help it, and remind yourself that everything will be waiting for you when you arrive at your desk next week! A little R&R will help you face Monday fresh-faced and on the top of your game.
source: kaboodle.com
