There’s plenty of talk about four-day work weeks and unlimited PTO. We’re all on a quest for more time, whether we’re active in careers or in retirement.
I love my career because of the relationships and helping people generate the results that matter to them and their goals. But increasingly, I seek unstructured time—time to putter around, time without commitments. That’s where Summer Fridays come in, an antidote to burnout.
The Magic
Summer Fridays offer an excellent remedy. They let us ease into the weekend, declaring some time for ourselves or our families. We create moments for reflection and hours of play by extending our time away from weekday commitments.
On my Summer Fridays, I enjoy reading on the deck, prepping a few seasonal salads for the weekend, mixing up a batch of something tasty to drink, running errands with my husband for DIY projects he’ll tackle over the weekend, and indulging in a more extended yoga session.
Why They Work
Studies show that even a tiny reduction in work hours can significantly decrease stress and increase productivity. We return to our commitments with renewed energy and enthusiasm by taking a few hours for ourselves.
Creating Your Perfect Summer Friday
Balance relaxation, personal interests, and perhaps a bit of productivity that feels fulfilling rather than obligatory. Make the most of your unstructured time:
Plan Ahead: Decide how you want to spend your Summer Friday. This could be anything from a leisurely breakfast at a favorite café to a day trip to a nearby park or museum.
Disconnect: Set boundaries for work communications. Turn off email notifications and let colleagues know you’ll be unavailable.
Indulge in Hobbies: Dive into activities you love but often set aside. Whether gardening, painting, or baking, let yourself enjoy the process without a strict timeline.
Move: Physical activity is a great way to unwind. A long walk, a gentle yoga, or a swim can help you feel refreshed and revitalized.
Connect:: Get together with friends or family. Today, I’m excited to catch up with one of my neighbors during a morning walk.
Self-Care: Treat yourself. This could be a spa day at home, reading a book you’ve been meaning to get to, or taking a nap in the middle of the afternoon.
Explore: Try something new. Visit a new part of town, try a new recipe, or start a new hobby. New experiences provide a fresh perspective.
Put up your “gone fishing” sign and take the time you need. You’ll find yourself returning to work and life with a lighter heart and a clearer mind.
Two Links Du Jour
Summer Self-Care Ideas: Take the Challenge to Relax from Jule Buono, founder of The Literary Lifestyle
A Relaxation Bucket List – Love Self Care – offers a free guide, “How to Add More Self Care to Your Life
Two Minutes Du Jour 