Weekend Reset: How to Curate Time for Yourself in This Crazy World
And just like that, we’ve landed on the weekend! Full of hope and possibilities, weekends inspire grand plans for relaxation or productivity. Yet, somehow, Sunday evening arrives, and we’re left wondering: “Where did the weekend go?” Let’s change that by embracing the habit of a Weekend Reset.
What Is a Weekend Reset?
A Weekend Reset is a dedicated time to recharge from the past week and prepare for the one ahead. It’s about setting intentions for how to spend your 48 hours—or even just the precious quiet moments you can carve out before the chaos of life resumes. If you have kids, perhaps your reset happens in those rare, peaceful hours before they wake up.
To be clear, this isn’t about adding another task to your already overloaded to-do list. The goal is to pick one or two ideas and gradually incorporate them into your weekend routine. Let’s dive in.
Enjoy a Relaxing Environment
For most of us, a weekend getaway isn’t feasible. Instead, create a small, calming space at home. Spend 15 minutes tidying up—not a full-blown spring cleaning, just enough to clear distractions and make the area feel peaceful. Light a candle, start a fire in the fireplace, or arrange the space to evoke a sense of calm.
This isn’t just about physical space; it’s about mental space. Treat your environment as if you’re on a mini vacation in your own home. By curating this sanctuary, you set the stage for a relaxing weekend.
Engage in Mindful Activities
With your calming space ready, it’s time to focus on you. Brew your favorite tea or coffee, drink water, and settle in. This time is yours. Open that book you’ve meant to read, write a few pages in your journal, or try a soothing face mask. Alternatively, sit in quiet meditation. Whatever fills your cup, dedicate 30 minutes to it.
If silence feels too heavy—I get it. As a mom to four kids, I’ve craved quiet, but sometimes it’s overwhelming. In that case, try yin yoga or gentle stretching to release tension. If tidying up a space isn’t an option, step outside. Take a walk in nature (or your neighborhood) without headphones. Let this be your time to unplug and be present in the world.
Curate Your Leisure Time
Weekends are for rediscovering what makes you feel like you. Tap into your creative side—knitting, baking, photography, or writing—and do something purely for the joy it brings.
If cooking brings you happiness but has become a chore, try experimenting with recipes just for you—perhaps something your chicken tender-loving kids would never touch. Or use this time to connect with someone special. Meet a friend for coffee or unwind with a glass of wine after the kids go to bed. Laughter and connection are priceless.
Prioritize Self-Care
A Weekend Reset is all about you. Create space to think, move, create, and laugh. These moments replenish the parts of yourself that get lost in the week’s busyness.
Whatever you choose, ensure it supports your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Whether it’s 10 minutes or a couple of hours, prioritizing self-care will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week.
Set Intentions for the week Ahead
As your reset winds down, take 10-15 minutes to plan for the coming week. Reflect on your priorities and review your calendar. Are your commitments aligned with what matters most? Are there opportunities to sneak in moments for yourself, such as a midweek coffee date with a friend or a yoga class before the day begins?
Setting clear intentions helps you approach the week with focus and balance.
The Beauty of the Reset
A Weekend Reset is about re-centering yourself in your life. By carving out time to refill your spirit, you’ll have more energy to give to others. Over time, your reset routine will evolve. One weekend may be about physical activity, while another is dedicated to quiet reflection. Even 10 minutes can make a difference.
For me, my reset often begins with a walk in the park. As tempting as it is to listen to an audiobook, I leave my earbuds behind and enjoy the sounds of nature. Afterward, I’ll tackle my to-do list, which usually includes decluttering and creating more open space at home.
How will you reset this weekend? What small changes can you commit to this month to make your weekends more fulfilling? Let’s start reclaiming our time—one weekend at a time.