It's Saturday: How to switch off from work

It's Saturday morning and you have a day of laziness ahead of you – so why are you checking your work emails?

Here's how to really use your weekend to relax, make the most of your time off and go back to work refreshed and enthusiastic.

Get some exercise

Don't just spend the weekend in bed with Netflix and toast. Exercise will boost your mood and completely separate your work day from your downtime. Think about making exercise a part of your routine every weekend. Even a simple beach walk or a game of Frisbee with the kids will get you out of the house.

Switch off your workphone

Turn off work email notifications on the weekend. Stay out of online work chats and channels. If it is important enough they will call you. Don't even look at your workphone.

Don't talk about work today

If you need to vent a little to friends or family make sure you get it over with on Friday night. Don't forget, your partner needs to switch off too and doesn't need your negative energy.

Mindfulness

Much is said about being mindful these days, but all it really means is to be present. Be focused on what is going on around you, not what might be happening in the office or what you might have to deal with on Monday.

Do something that is completely unlike your workday

If you sit in an office at a computer all day, avoid your computer at home. If you are a tradie, don't pick up the tools.

Me time

Your family will be wanting to spend time with you but set aside time just for you too. It is not selfish to take care of yourself – if your personal well is dry, you won't be offering your best to your loved ones anyway.

Don't force yourself to do things you don't want to do

Even if you love your job - of course you do - you spend enough time jumping to the commands and needs of the business and your coworkers and bosses. Make sure you spend your leisure time on activities you truly enjoy and that don't make you feel nervous or stressed.

Don't rely on booze

A few wines or ales are fine but alcohol is a known mood inhibitor and can come with all sorts of health hazards. Keep your mind clear and fresh: the last thing you want is to waste your precious time off too hungover to enjoy it. Or, worse, start the working week too hungover to function.

Do your chores

It sounds counter intuitive but stay on top of your chores. Little else boosts your soul than sitting in a freshly vacuumed, fresh-smelling home, all your surfaces clear and fresh clean and ironed clothes awaiting your Monday morning self.

Wind down on Friday

Give yourself a headstart on next weekend by spend the last half hour of Friday winding down. Make your next week's to-do list and avoid starting any tasks that you cannot finish so you don't fret about it over the weekend.