It feels like you were literally just leaving work on Friday, but all of a sudden, it’s Sunday night, and you’re wondering where the weekend went.
Those two days a week we get to ourselves don’t last nearly long enough, and while I unfortunately can’t magically make them any longer, I can help make them FEEL longer. Here are some things I swear by to help me feel like my weekends are actually meaningful and relaxing like they’re meant to be.
1. Start your weekend on Friday evening.
Don’t wait until Saturday morning to shift into weekend mode. Begin your relaxation as soon as you finish work on Friday. Treat yourself to a nice dinner or engage in a fun activity to create a clear boundary between work and leisure. Shifting your mind can make your weekend feel like it starts earlier, which kinda makes you feel like it’s longer.
2. Wake up at your usual time.
It’s tempting to sleep in, but maintaining your regular wake-up time can actually make your weekend feel longer. You’ll have more daylight hours to enjoy, and the consistency can help prevent that groggy Monday feeling. Use the extra morning hours for doing things you enjoy, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.
3. Plan one exciting activity for each day.
Having something to look forward to can make time feel more expansive. Schedule one special activity or outing for Saturday and another for Sunday. These don’t have to be elaborate or expensive – a picnic in the park, a movie night, or trying a new recipe can all qualify. The anticipation and enjoyment of these planned events can stretch your perception of time.
4. Limit screen time and social media.
It’s easy to lose hours scrolling through social media or binge-watching shows. While these things can be enjoyable, they often make time feel like it’s passing quickly. Set boundaries for your screen time and fill those hours with more engaging activities. You’ll likely find that your days feel fuller and more satisfying when you’re not constantly staring at a screen.
5. Try something new each weekend.
Novel experiences can make time feel like it’s passing more slowly. Challenge yourself to try one new thing each weekend, whether it’s visiting a new cafe, learning something new, or exploring a different part of your city. These fresh experiences create distinct memories, making your weekend feel more substantial in retrospect.
6. Spend time in nature.
Nature has a way of slowing down our perception of time. Take a walk in the park, go for a hike, or simply sit in your garden. The change of scenery and connection with the natural world can help you feel more present and make your weekend feel longer. Plus, the fresh air and exercise can boost your mood and energy levels.
7. Practise mindfulness.
Being fully present in the moment can stretch our perception of time. Try incorporating mindfulness practices into your weekend routine. This could be through meditation, yoga, or simply taking a few minutes to focus on your breath. By slowing down and paying attention to the present, you can make each moment feel richer and more expansive.
8. Break your routine.
Routines can make time feel like it’s passing quickly because our brains aren’t processing new information. Shake things up by altering your usual weekend patterns. If you always have a lie-in on Saturdays, try an early morning walk instead. If you always order takeaway on Sunday evenings, try cooking a new recipe. These small changes can make your weekend feel fresh and longer.
9. Engage in flow activities.
Flow is a state of complete absorption in an activity, where time seems to stand still. Engage in hobbies or activities that put you in this state, such as painting, gardening, or playing an instrument. Not only will time feel like it’s passing more slowly, but you’ll also end up with a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.
10. Socialise meaningfully.
Source: Unsplash Quality time with friends and loved ones can make weekends feel more fulfilling. Plan social activities that allow for genuine connection and conversation. A long catch-up over coffee, a group hike, or a potluck dinner can create lasting memories and make your weekend feel more substantial. These interactions often feel more rewarding than passive activities like watching TV together.
11. Avoid over-scheduling.
While it’s good to have plans, cramming too much into your weekend can make it feel rushed and short. Leave some unstructured time for spontaneity and relaxation. This balance allows you to feel both productive and rested, making your weekend feel more satisfying overall. Remember, sometimes doing less can actually make time feel like it’s stretching further.
12. Create distinct experiences for Saturday and Sunday.
Source: Unsplash Give each day of your weekend a different flavour. For example, Saturday could be for socialising and outdoor activities, while Sunday could be for relaxation and personal projects. This differentiation helps create two distinct experiences, rather than one blur of a weekend. It can make your time off feel longer and more varied.
13. Reflect on your weekend.
Before heading to bed on Sunday, take a few moments to reflect on your weekend. Recall the activities you did, the people you saw, and how you felt. This reflection helps cement your experiences in your memory, making your weekend feel fuller and more substantial in hindsight. It’s also a great way to appreciate the time you’ve had and start the week on a positive note.
