Oct 27, 2021
VisualizeYour Perfect Day Off
When you realize you need a break, take it!
I recently wrote about “Signs You Need a Break” and from the week leading up to that article to now, the sensation of needing a break has grown.
Instead of telling you all the reasons why I need a break, I wanted to share with you my ideal “day off” day. I have to clarify “day off” because I have an ideal “work day” but that is for another time and another post. This day off would be during the work week so I can see what life is like when I am at work.
Bright and early
Since I have kids my day would start bright and early at 6:30am. This is my reality and I have accepted it, but getting up this early on a day off means I can enjoy the day longer, right? The morning can be spent in (somewhat) leisure without having to rush to get ready, allows me to take my time sipping my coffee, and get the kids ready for daycare knowing I am not pressing for time.
Activity
My kids would be off to daycare with their dad by 8am so I would casually change into my workout clothes and finally get a full, uninterrupted, workout in. Afterwards, I would take my time stretching to cool down. Since it takes time to cool down, I would write in my journal or write any and all ideas I have. Whether it’s writing what I am grateful for or ideas for posts, writing brings me joy and an energy that fuels me.
*The piles of laundry, dirty kitchen, and all the chores can wait another day. I am taking advantage of not working today.*
Get ready
Around 9:30am I would take a shower, briskly get ready, and put on a cute and casual fall outfit. Although this seems basic, I wear professional attire everyday for work and weekends consist of rushing around the house doing the chores. This fall outfit would consist of a sweater, jeans, booties, and potentially a hat.
Potential self-care
I don’t like the act of getting my nails, hair, or really any treatment done because I feel they take too long and I don’t find them relaxing. However, it is so nice to have them done, just not the act of having it done. Therefore, nails would be included if I was feeling up to it.
Read and coffee — perfect combo
I would go to a cute boutique style coffee shop with a book in hand and finally read as long as I wanted, with a good cup of coffee, and no interruptions. At the coffee shop, I would find a good corner and chair to sit in and make sure I have a good view of the shop so I can simultaneously people watch.
There is something about a warm coffee on a brisk mid-morning. Being able to take my time with my coffee rather than chug it to finish it before rushing out the door, would bring so much joy.
Try something new
Lunch would take place somewhere I rarely have time for since I only have an hour for lunch during work days. Honestly, I would want to try something new and take my time dining (ideally, dine outside if it was a nice day). Although I don’t exactly know what restaurant I would choose, I would have the luxury of driving around to see what mood strikes.
Favorite things
After lunch I would go shopping at Target, a local book store, then to Trader Joes (for those that don’t know, it is a healthier grocery store with unique items). I know this is basic, but I love all three. Those places bring so much joy. Trader Joes allows me to envision a life of clean eating with unique and fun foods, Target fills other needs I don’t often include in my regular schedule, and I love the smell of books. At these stores, I would browse and really take my time picking out the items. With the beautiful display of flowers at Trader Joes, I would buy myself a bundle to enjoy at home.
Nearing the end
Quick trip home to drop off the goods from the stores and sit. These days I rarely get any time for myself, so this would be an opportunity for silence and relaxation.
Before my day off can end, I would make a quick trip to get an iced cold drink (not coffee this time) from a local shop before picking up my kids. I love my kids but this drink and the car ride to daycare will be the last luxury before clocking in as mom, and that’s okay.
Takeaway
I am sure I can think of a million other things I would do with my day, but this is definitely close to perfection, for me. I would potentially add walking my dog to enjoy the nice weather or a dessert place.
What would your ideal day be if you had a day off from work?
