Are you ready for our third installment of our Practical Ways to Practice Self Love series?
(Don’t forget to check out Part 1 and Part 2!)
It might not seem that revolutionary, but, trust me…
𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐟𝐟.
And no, I’m not talking about calling out from work only to clean your entire house, do all your laundry, file your taxes, etc.
Take a REAL day off.
According to a study done by Glassdoor, Americans have a number of reasons to avoid taking a day off. These include:
- Fear of falling behind at work, upsetting their boss, or worrying about overwhelming the rest of the team with work.
- Fear of missing out on an important work project, decision, or meeting.
- Fear of upcoming layoffs, resulting in saving up vacation time to pay out just in case.
- The inability to afford a vacation.
- The need to check emails and messages at all times, so why bother?
But a 2017 survey found that over 80% of managers agreed time off improves health and wellbeing, boosts morale, and alleviates burnout.
Time away from work is also great for
- resetting yourself mentally
- improving your focus
- remembering who you are, and
- rekindling relationships
Taking a day off doesn’t mean you have to do nothing. It just means you do what you need to do to recharge.
Here are some ideas for your day off:
Take a break from digital responsibilities.
If you’re able, don’t check your email. You are truly off the clock.
Take a midday nap.
Afternoon naps reduce fatigue, increase your reaction time, and improve your mood and memory!
Say NO.
It’s YOUR day. Say “no” to things you don’t feel like doing and people you don’t feel like engaging with for one day.
Treat yourself.
Go shopping just for you. Buy yourself something nice. Grab your favorite dessert. (My current vice is DQ Blizzards!)
Read a book you’ve been meaning to catch up on.
Immerse yourself in an entirely different world all from the comfort of your bed!
Have a one-person dance party in your living room!
Let loose! Go wild! Music and dance are a mood-boosting combination!
Take a bath.
There’s nothing quite like a good soak to for full mind-body relaxation.
Get a massage.
Whether you sit in a chair all day or lift heavy objects around, a massage can do WONDERS for resetting your body!
Make something.
A collage? Muffins? A Tiktok dance? Anything! Get those creative juices flowin’!
Try something new.
Take a class. Go axe-throwing. Visit a gallery. Trying something new increases your skillset, helps you make new memories and earns you confidence by pushing you from your comfort zone!
Nature it up.
Hit a hike or have a park picnic.
What will YOU do with your day off?