Finding Balance during a long weekend: Tips for a stress-free 3 days
Finding balance during a long weekend can often feel like a daunting task for Vancouverites, especially when juggling family demands, competing activities, and taking care of yourself. It can be difficult to prioritize and manage your time. However, with a little organization and planning, it is possible to enjoy quality time with loved ones, partake in your favourite activities, and prioritize self-care without breaking the bank (or burning out).
To help you achieve this perfect holiday schedule, we have compiled a list of practical tips and strategies that will enable you to enjoy life to the fullest:
Plan Ahead: Start by outlining a schedule for the long weekend that accommodates both family time and personal pursuits. By setting clear boundaries and allocating specific time slots for different activities, you can ensure that both your loved ones and your needs are given attention.
🤖 We suggest leaning on the robots for this one - try ClickUp AI. They have a “free forever” tier that integrates with Google Calendar, Outlook and Calendly… say what?!)
Communicate Your Priorities: Talk openly with your family about the pressures you are facing by juggling so many things during the long weekend. Discuss everyone's expectations and find compromises that allow each person to engage in activities they enjoy while still spending quality time together.
😩 Does thinking about speaking up to friends and family put a lump in your throat? Local legend and relationship guru Mark Groves has an entire course on how to become a boundary badass.
Make a Budget: Financial stress can quickly dampen the enjoyment of a long weekend. Before the weekend begins, create a budget that accounts for any anticipated expenses. This way, you can enjoy yourself without worrying about overspending.
💰 Here’s a free budget spreadsheet for Google that’s super duper easy to use.
Be Mindful of Health: Taking care of your well-being is crucial to maintaining balance. Incorporate physical activities, such as hiking the local mountains or exploring the Spirit Trail by bike, into your plans, and ensure you make time for relaxation and self-care. There is no shortage of ways to zen out or sweat with over a dozen fitness studios in Lower Lonsdale to try out.
🥤Remember to eat healthily and stay hydrated to keep your energy levels up. Lolo’s very own Buddha-Full has over 15 unique smoothies that include a portion of healthy fats, carbs, and proteins - the trifecta of health! Feelin’ Autumnal? Order yourself the limited-time Pumpkin Patch smoothie. (Local power move: upgrade it to a bowl).
Embrace Technology-Free Time: In our digital age, it can be tempting to constantly check emails, social media, and work-related tasks. However, for a truly rejuvenating long weekend, designate specific periods where you put technology aside and fully immerse yourself in meaningful interactions and activities without distractions.
🔥 Hot tip: Take the extra downtime to finally understand and activate those Focus Settings on your smartphone.
Be Flexible: Despite your best efforts to plan, unexpected circumstances may arise. Embrace flexibility and allow room for spontaneity. This will ensure that you can adapt to any changes and make the most of every moment.
Or scream into a pillow - that helps too.
By implementing these practical tips and strategies, you can strike the perfect balance between family time, personal pursuits, and self-care during the long weekend. Get ready to embark on an adventure, create lasting memories, and prioritize your well-being, all while staying within your budget. With these 6 easy-to-follow guidelines in mind, you are well on your way to a stress-free long weekend - enjoy!
