Growing up, I was always more of a rule-follower than a rule-breaker. Later in life, this turned into a tendency to set my own “rules” or routines, and then rarely stray from them. Things like always doing my grocery shopping on Sunday afternoons, having dates on Friday nights, or cleaning our place on Saturday mornings. But recently, I’ve been questioning these rules. Who says we can’t have a lunch date midweek? Or finish up household chores on a lazy Saturday night?
Amour Vert Dress | Cult Gaia Bag | Espadrilles (similar)
As I wrote about on Instagram this weekend, I’m challenging myself to channel a “vacation mindset” more often. You know how, on vacation, you wake up and take things one step at a time? Decide what you need, or want, to do in the moment, based on how you feel? You know that everything that needs to get done will get done, but by taking it step by step, the whole day feels so much more relaxed and enjoyable.
Of course, this is easier said than done. Especially when the day-to-day catches up with you. And sometimes, you just need to be productive, there’s no avoiding it. But, there are a few small things I’m committing to this summer to make more average days feel like vacation days.
- Take 10 minutes in the morning to journal. Getting any thoughts that are floating around in my mind and down on paper helps me to identify what I need to prioritize, or just what will truly bring me joy that day.
- Break up with weekend chore schedules. Of course, the laundry needs to be done, food needs to be purchased, and the floor should probably be swept. But I’d rather spend my Sunday afternoon outside or at the beach than inside doing chores. So instead, I’ll get the weekly chores done during more unconventional times. Tuesday night cleaning party anyone?
- Say “yes” more often. I’m guilty of saying no to spontaneous invitations because I’m “too busy.” But, I’ve realized that more often than not, the commitments that are holding me back can easily be done at another time, more efficiently, or maybe don’t need to be done at all! And I can’t name a time that I’ve regretted an impromptu catch up with a friend, beach day, or trip to try a new restaurant.
Here’s to more time in vacation mode.
xx,
H
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