Intro: Got a rare day all to yourself? Whether you’re craving rest, adventure, or a little indulgence, here are some fun ways to spend it—without the guilt.
Recently, I took a day off work and I found myself realizing I had a whole day with no commitments. No ball games. No appointments. No family schedule to coordinate. Just me. And do you know what my first thought was? Oh good, I’ll finally catch up on that project…
But here’s the thing: every time I tell myself I’ll spend a free day being “productive,” I end up disappointed. What I’ve learned is this: the best use of a day alone isn’t checking off tasks—it’s removing all demands. Giving myself space. Letting the day unfold with fewer expectations.
So let’s talk about what to actually do with a day that’s all yours.
Step One: Tell Your People
Before you dive into your adventure (or non-adventure), make sure your family knows what you’re doing. Not in a “asking for permission” kind of way—but in a “I’m taking this time for me, and I’d love your support” way. It helps to share what you’re hoping for: “I need a reset, so I’m planning a quiet day with no demands” or “I want to explore and have fun, so I’ll be out and about.” When they understand, it feels less like you’re sneaking away and more like they’re cheering you on. I make sure to let everyone know that I won't be cooking and to make plans for themselves - pizza is usually involved.
Step Two: Decide Your Vibe
Some days call for adventure. Other days call for pajama pants and snacks. Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination:
-
Get into nature. Lace up your shoes and go for a hike. If you’re in East Tennessee, House Mountain is a great option—it’s close enough for a half-day trip but feels like a world away. The view from the top is the perfect reminder to breathe deeply. We have many options from hikes, to lakes, to Seven Islands Birding Park.
-
Book something indulgent. Schedule that massage, facial, or hair appointment you’ve been putting off. Even a simple shampoo and style can make you feel like a new person.
-
Play tourist. Visit a museum, a historical site, or even just a quirky little shop you usually drive past. There’s something fun about wandering with no agenda.
-
Veg out. Queue up that series you’ve been dying to watch (you know, the one no one else in your family is interested in). Make yourself comfy and binge guilt-free.
-
Dream a little. Unplug for a few hours. Bring a notebook and jot down ideas for the future—not to make a plan, but just to imagine. Sometimes we need space to think about what we want, not just what needs doing.
-
Wander and shop. Drive to that part of town you never get to, grab a coffee, and meander through boutiques or antique stores. Let yourself linger without rushing.
-
Rest. This may sound simple, but sometimes the bravest choice is to nap in the middle of the day. Rest is productive in its own way.
Step Three: Mix It Up
One of my favorite combinations? A hike and a massage. Move your body, breathe in the fresh air, and then reward yourself with deep relaxation. Or maybe start the morning unplugged with coffee and journaling, then end the day wandering through shops. Think of it like building a menu—you get to pick and choose.
Step Four: Hold Expectations Loosely
Whatever you choose, give yourself permission to shift gears. If you planned to wander shops but instead feel like curling up with a book, that’s fine. If you thought you’d binge a series but find yourself craving sunshine, go outside. The goal isn’t to do it “right.” The goal is to feel renewed and take advantage of having no one else's needs in mind for a day.
The Takeaway
As moms, we’re so used to organizing, planning, and making sure everyone else is cared for that we sometimes forget how to just be. A day alone—whether it’s filled with adventure, pampering, or total relaxation—reminds us that our needs matter too.
So the next time your calendar cracks open a little space, don’t rush to fill it with chores or productivity. Take the day for yourself. Tell your family, choose your vibe, and lean into whatever feels life-giving. You might be surprised how a single day can reset your spirit.
No comments:
Post a Comment