Taking regular ‘me time’ isn’t selfish, it’s essential. When you work full-time, it can be difficult to maximise the effects of your spare time. There’s always something to be done, whether its washing, cleaning or cooking. But preparing yourself in advance can help to really make the most of your day. Here’s how to take the perfect day off.
How to prepare for your day off:
The first thing you can do to make your day off as special as possible is to complete tasks earlier in the week. It’s hard feeling motivated to get chores done after a long day at work. I’m also not suggesting that you do this all the time. But when you know you want to take a full day just for you, it’s worth making the effect beforehand. By completing tasks earlier in the week, you’re freeing up space, mentally and physically, to truly dedicate your day off to yourself.
Another thing worth thinking about in advance is food. If you know you’re going to want something tasty on your day off, try to shop for this before your day off. Unless, of course, your favourite food is from your local cafe or restaurant. In that case, book yourself a table!
Signs you need some me time.
- Feelings of irritability
- Overwhelmed with emotion
- Unable to concentrate
- Burnout
- Lethargy
Me time is different for everyone because it depends on what makes you feel the best version of you. Some people like to feel fully relaxed so this means taking a bubble bath, listening to podcasts and reading a book. Others feel like they’re putting themselves first when they’re running, cycling or moving their bodies in ways that serve them. Some people just want to take a nap.

30 things to do on the perfect day off
- Take a walk
- Pamper yourself
- Bake something tasty
- Watch a film or TV
- Catch up with a friend
- Go for a bike ride
- Paint your nails
- Go to your favourite cafe
- Give yourself a makeover
- Spend time in your garden
- Do some painting
- Write in your journal
- Meditate
- Go for a run
- Colour in your colouring book
- Listen to a podcast
- Watch YouTube
- Practise pilates
- Spend time with animals
- Read a book
- Make your favourite drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic!)
- Stretch
- Call a family member
- Write a story
- Dance to your favourite songs
- Play a board game
- Take a nap
- Have a bubble bath
- Go swimming
- Make your favourite dessert
Still struggling to make self-care a priority? Here are 5 ways to make self-care more effective from Living Pretty Happy!
Whichever way you do it, there’s no right or wrong way to the perfect day off as long as you’re 100% committed to making yourself the priority.
Always remember to take a paws.
Charlotte x

Ooo this list is going to come in handy this weekend as I have zero plans and jack is at work for 2 full days! Thanks for sharing Charlotte and hope you get to have a ‘me’ day this weekend 🙂
Thanks Millie! Enjoy your ‘you time’ this weekend!
This is so helpful! I’ve never really thought about preparing for a day-off before I just kind of fall into them but this is such a good idea. Thanks so much for including me! Xxx
You’re welcome! And thank you for reading! Sometimes the prep is just as important as the day itself :)xx