We all experience that time during the week when we are wishing for the work week to be over. In our minds we want to fast forward to the weekend so we can relax, kickback and not worry about any responsibilities. Before we know it Friday afternoon comes around, the work week is over and we begin our time of leisure! The problem is, many of us don't have down time on the weekends. We reserve our weekends for household chores and squeezing as much stuff into our schedule as possible to make the most of the weekend. Before we know it the weekend is gone and we're back to reality, vaguely remembering those two days off as a thing of the past.
With corporate downsizing in the 1980s and 1990 employers have demanded more productivity from fewer employees. This coupled with the use of cell phones and technology equates to lost evenings and weekends as well. Many employees feel the need to stay connected to secure their positions, rather than taking time to disconnect.
“Leisure used to be something to aspire to,” says Katrina Onstad, author of the book The Weekend Effect. “But now being overworked is a sign of success. We equate ‘not working’ with laziness.” As a result of this mindset we aspire to be as productive as possible, not leaving any time to unwind and relax. Research suggests this can have a negative impact on our health. "A recent study showed that people who don’t clearly separate their work life and free time are less likely to participate in activities that encourage relaxation and recovery from work. They feel exhausted and suffer from a diminished sense of overall well-being." Without that relaxation we feel just as exhausted on Monday as we were on Friday.
Here are some suggestions to help reclaim weekend leisure according to Onstad. Rethink your week. Onstad suggests to spread out your weekend chores throughout the week to free up some time over the weekend. Carve out free time. Go for a walk in nature and unplug from technology. If you have a weekend project that needs to get done, unplugging will actually improve you productivity. Prioritize fulfillment. Focus on physical health, escapes and people you enjoy spending time with. These suggestions will help you feel more satisfied and rested come Monday! To find out more ways to keep yourself healthy, please visit our website at www.oxborochiro.com .
