You must take time for yourself when you’ve had a busy work week. To decrease the chances of burnout, you should say bye-bye to work sometimes. The best time to do that is on the weekends after a loaded week. Need ideas on how to get your mind off work and rest? Here are nine ways to wind down after a dreadful work week.

Unplug

First and foremost, unplug. Get rid of all electronic devices and enjoy being present with the world around you. When you’re on your electronics for pleasure, checking e-mails or social media is tempting, which could lead you right back to work-related tasks. Commit to putting down your devices for just one weekend to avoid this.

Change clothes

Taking a shower and changing into some comfy clothes can make a world of difference. If you work outside of the home, maybe you want to change into sweats. If you work from home and are always in sweats, maybe you want to change it up and get dressed to step out. Whatever you put on, make sure it’s comfortable and makes you feel good.

Commit to not working

Be intentional about your weekend. Commit to not working or doing any work-related activities and stick to it. The only way to truly wind down is by doing things that relax you and bring you joy. If you sneak back to work, you’re only doing yourself a disservice.

Read a book

There’s no better way to relax and wind down than by diving into a good book. There are so many benefits associated with reading. So, relax, put your feet up, and get lost in the lives of your favorite fictional characters.

Have a drink

If you drink, make yourself a cocktail or go out to have a few drinks. If you’re at home, try out a new cocktail recipe while jamming out to your favorite music. If you go out, choose a place with a relaxing vibe and live music. This is a great way to unwind and calm your mind after a stressful week.

Pamper yourself

What do you call pampering yourself? Whatever it is, do that. Pampering can be anything from clipping your toenails to relaxing with your feet up. Here are several ideas to pamper yourself this weekend:

  • Book a massage
  • Do an at-home facial
  • Soak your feet & paint your toes
  • Book a mani/pedi
  • Take a bubble bath
  • Book a chef
  • Take yourself out to lunch/dinner

Schedule plans

Schedule plans with friends, your significant other, or solo. Whether you want to go out for brunch or see a movie at the theater, getting out of the house is always good. Do something fun that will take your mind off of the week you’ve had.

Call someone

Catching up with friends or family with healthy conversation is a great way to relax and take your mind off things. Call someone you’ve wanted to check on or FaceTime your best friend to laugh for hours. Meaningful conversation can be really beneficial and eye-opening.

Rest, reflect, and prep

Lastly, rest, reflect, and prep.

Rest by taking some time to truly rest your body. Whether it’s a nap or a good night’s sleep.

Reflect by reflecting on what happened during the week prior. Make note of what worked and what didn’t. Set intentions for the new week ahead and determine how it can be better than last week.

Prep by getting ready for the week ahead. Whether that’s setting out your clothes, writing out your to-do list for the week, or prepping food for next week’s lunch.


In what ways do you relax and unwind after a long work week? Leave a comment below!