Why You Should Have a “Do Nothing Day” and How to Have One!
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We live in a world where we are always on the go, and many feel they must always be busy. Otherwise, they may be viewed as lazy or unproductive. But rest and relaxation are essential to our health. Which is why you should learn how to have a do nothing day!
A “Do Nothing Day” is a day where you allow yourself to take a day and spend it doing nothing or something you enjoy with no agenda or to-do list.
Although it sounds simple enough, it actually takes a little preparation to ensure you aren’t sucked into tending to chores or guilting yourself out of taking the day for yourself.
So, this post will teach you how to get ready and have a do nothing day so you can get some much-needed R&R!
But first, let’s chat about why scheduling a do nothing day is important!
Why Scheduling a Do Nothing Day is Important
Being on the go and constantly doing something usually leads to burnout. This can cause mental and physical ailments if you go too long without giving yourself a break. In fact, Dr. James L. Wilson discusses the cause of chronic stress and the link to Adrenal Fatigue in his book “Adrenal Fatigue: The 21st Century Stress Syndrome.”
I know this all too well because my cortisol levels were in a severe state back in 2015. Something that I need to incorporate more into my life, as well as others, is to “Do something enjoyable every day.”
That is what Dr. Wilson advises for helping to combat burnout. Also, resting is essential! So, a do nothing day is technically good for your health.
How to Have a Do Nothing Day
Doing nothing or taking a day for yourself may sound easy, but it’s actually necessary to plan for it. Otherwise, you may end up getting wrapped up in doing something like chores or feeling guilty about taking a day off.
So, here are the steps you need to take to actually have a do nothing day
Put your Do Nothing Day on Your Schedule!
How many times have you wanted to take a day to enjoy yourself, but it never seems to happen? Before you know it, the weekend is over, and you are back to Monday again.
That’s why you need to schedule your do nothing day on your planner! Pick a day that works with your schedule where you can take the day to yourself without any other agenda planned.
2. Tell Others You Have Plans
This sounds strange but telling friends, family, and even work if they tend to call and ask you to come in on your day off, is important to do beforehand. If you don’t, more than likely, someone will pop by or ask for help the day you are trying to rest and recharge.
So, without giving out details, simply state you have plans for that day and aren’t available.
3. Prepare Ahead of Time
The key to having a do nothing day is preparing ahead of time for it. Stock up on food, your favorite drinks, and whatever else you may need. If you want to spend some time during your day doing a hobby or making a craft, be sure to get the supplies you need.
You should also get any outstanding things from your to-do list done. That way, you don’t end up trying to do tasks when you are supposed to be resting and relaxing.
4. Do Whatever You Feel Like Doing
The point of a do nothing day is taking time out for yourself. If you feel tired then take the day and sleep in, take naps, and just lounge around. If you feel like doing something you enjoy, then spend some time on your favorite hobby.
Or maybe there’s an amazing book you’ve wanted to read but never have the time. The point is to take the day and do whatever makes you happy. Whether it be a do nothing day or a day of spending time doing things you love. Soak it up and enjoy.
5. Have a Do Nothing Day Every Week
Nowadays, we all seem to be either working, doing chores, or working on a side hustle. But life is short, and you need to take time out and rest and have some fun. So, try to schedule a day every week when you get to do nothing or let the day unfold however you see fit.
Recharge Yourself with a Do Nothing Day!
You may find it hard to take time for yourself but remember it’s essential to your mental and physical health.
Start taking time out for yourself every day with a mindful morning routine. Check out my post to learn how to start your day off right with a mindful morning routine!