How to Enjoy Time Off (When You Only Have a Day)

Work can be consuming. Even when you take a vacation, it might take a few days to actually register that you don’t need to be on your email or checking in with your manager every hour. But we all know that breaks are so essential for improving health, productivity, and happiness. So what happens when you only have a day to totally unwind, relax, and unplug?

You should use that time to its full advantage.

Those random days off can really help keep you centered (if spent correctly). To help you avoid wasting half the day worrying about what you think you should be doing, we’ve gathered some links from around the web with advice for making the most of just a little time off.

First, give yourself permission to invest in “you time,” even if it means doing absolutely nothing. It might take some time, but it’s crucial to understand that personal time is a priority, not an option. (Lifehacker)
Watch out for those feelings of guilt that sneak their way into your brain. Once you’ve taken the day off, make enjoying that time your goal. (CNN)
Try choosing a random day of the week for your time off when way fewer people are out and about trying to get their own to-do lists done. (Huffington Post)
Spend time with friends and family you don’t normally get to see during the workday to feel extra rejuvinated. (LinkedIn)
Completely unwind by doing anything and everything unproductive: Watch a movie, peruse a bookstore, play video games, take a long nap, finish an entire season of that show you’ve been craving. (Apartment Therapy)
If you would really rather get some things done, try a few of these actionable ideas to get your free day off to a great start and be productive throughout. (You Set the Pace)
Schedule your extra day off on a Friday or Monday and turn your one day into a mini-weekend getaway! (Virtuoso)

Want more? Check out our articles for more advice on how to get that time off and spend it wisely!

Photo of woman on the beach courtesy of Shutterstock.