Have you ever spent a lazy Saturday in your PJs watching Netflix, only to be hit with a wave of guilt on Sunday night? The laundry mountain grew bigger, your closet is a mess, and work emails multiplied? Yeah, me too. That sinking feeling of ‘shoulda, coulda, done more’ can steal the joy of relaxation.
This guilt often stems from a world obsessed with productivity. We’re bombarded with messages about hustling and achieving, making relaxation feel like a luxury we don’t deserve. But here’s the truth: relaxation isn’t a reward, it’s a necessity. Just like your phone needs to recharge, so do you. Rest and rejuvenation are key to coming back feeling focused and energized.
I used to be the queen of relaxation guilt. Even now, sometimes after a day of lounging around in pajamas, I’ll catch myself thinking, “I should have organized my office or closet.” But I’ve learned some tricks to combat this guilt and truly enjoy my downtime.
Make a list of the key things that must be done before you leave. Then DO THEM. Conquer the pre-vacation to-do list: Schedule emails to go out while you’re gone, delegate tasks if possible, and set an “out of office” message. At home, clear your workspace – a clean desk equals a clear mind upon return.
Organize your office before you go so you do not return to a mess. This applies to your physical and digital workspace! File important documents, clear your download folder, and close unnecessary browser tabs. A clutter-free environment makes it easier to jump back into work when you’re refreshed.
Really be present with your children while you are away. Life is precious and children grow so fast. Put your phone away during family outings. Focus on creating memories and genuine connections. Remember to take lots of pictures.
Do not put pressure on yourself to do “all the things” on your vacation. Pick your top 2-3 priorities only. If you get to more, great! If you don’t, it’s okay. Trying to cram everything in can leave you feeling rushed and exhausted, defeating the purpose of relaxation.
This past week, we took a mini getaway to Dollywood. We had a blast at the waterpark and Dollywood exploring and taking our time spending time together. We didn’t have a particular agenda so we went with the flow. On Monday it was time to leave so we stopped at Heartsong Resort for breakfast. We were looking at all of the people lounging by the pool relaxing, and we wished we could do the same. Spontaneously, we decided to extend our stay and book at room at the beautiful resort.
Here’s the thing: we didn’t feel guilty about this last-minute decision. We spent the entire day lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying some well-deserved downtime. Aiden decided he didn’t want the pool so he played video games in the room while we sipped cocktails and sunshine. It was absolute bliss.
This experience shows the importance of guilt-free relaxation. It doesn’t need to be a fancy vacation or a detailed planned itinerary. Sometimes, the best relaxation come from simply allowing yourself to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Life is precious and short, and we must take the time to enjoy it while we can. Without the guilt of all the other things we could be doing with our time. Are you ready to ditch the relaxation guilt? Try scheduling a “do nothing” day this week. You might be surprised at how much more productive you feel afterward. Share your guilt-free relaxation experiences in the comments below!
