Weekend Hack: Maximizing Your Time Without Draining Your Bank Account
With the arrival of “Friyay,” as we so lovingly call it, the weekend is the perfect time to [...]
With the arrival of "Friyay," as we so lovingly call it, the weekend is the perfect time to recharge ourselves from the stresses of an eventful week and catch up on things we love doing. But between that after-work glass of wine on Friday evening and that imminent blaring of the alarm come Monday morning, those 60 hours of weekend bliss whiz by faster than Wonder Woman on a busy day. The key is being intentional about making those two days memorable and productive without putting stress on your bank account.
Stay in Shape
When the weekend's here, we all tend to do that little happy dance. While that's a great form of exercise, you really want to kick it up and benefit from the time you've got off. Head out for a brisk walk or a long run around the neighborhood, and top it off with some kettlebells or yoga! If you're a member at the gym, take advantage of exciting weekend classes like spinning or the body-vamping Pound. Either way, try your best to fit in a fitness routine during your weekends to keep your body and mind in Zen mode.
prevnextExplore Your Community
With consideration to your wallet and the popular hashtag #shoplocal, explore your backyard for plenty of exciting hidden gems! From local boutiques and brunching with coffee or mimosas to grabbing goodies at the farmers market and visiting museums offering free admission — wandering through your neighborhood can be the best way to relax and discover your new favorite hangout.
If fun means giving back, volunteer at a local food bank, soup kitchen or a Boys and Girls Club chapter. Or, if you're a busy body or mom who works from home with work continuously on the brain, try connecting with professionals in the area through community and networking events.
prevnextBecome a Chef
Of course good food is a priority for Womanistas any day, but weekends are a great time to really let our inner foodie shine! Sure, homemade pizza and soup are the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, but weekends are for discovering new things! Be bold and pick up the latest cookbook, look at the latest trends in the food world, and hit up Pinterest for inspiration.
If you want to stay on top of family budgeting for the week ahead, plan your grocery list and prepare for something new, like Mason jar recipes that are simple and easy.
prevnextMake Yourself at Home
Whether it's that dream vanity you always wanted, a gallery wall, or the striking closet reminiscent of every successful working woman in a romantic comedy, spend your weekend upcycling or taking on a DIY project. Not only can working on something stimulate your enterprising side, but it can also burn calories and provide a feel-good factor of productivity to your day. With plenty of blogs offering a myriad of ideas for design and décor, discover what you can make from inexpensive supplies to brighten up your home.
Alternatively, if you're a homebody who loves her PJs — satiate your cravings, meditate and get that beauty sleep you rightfully deserve.
prevnextGet in That Girl Time
Besides doing the laundry and organizing for the week ahead, a fantastic way to celebrate your two-day break could include a well-planned and fun girl's night of fine wine, DIY masks, and binge-watching Netflix. Between a potluck and board games, nothing says weekend entertainment like spending time with your best girlfriends and catching up from a busy week. If you're ready to hit the town, brave the chilly weather and hit up a comedy club for an evening of laughs or hit the bars for trivia and karaoke.
prevnextPrioritize Those Creative Juices
Our creativity often starts to lag mid-week, so when Friday arrives, it's crucial to get those wheels running. Get into the habit of channeling your creativity through the arts, like writing, drawing, or taking Instagram-worthy photographs. If you want to seek encouragement for the days ahead, pick up an inspiring read, tune in to a TED talk, or head to a weekend workshop. Many institutions and stores offer free classes on weekends featuring topics like woodworking, cooking, and even painting.
prev