Why 'Not Just Living for the Weekend' May Be a Social Media Trend for Good
You may have noticed a recent trend on social media where people are documenting and romanticizing their midweek excursions and rituals. From spoof versions declaring they're 'not just living for the weekend' before quickly jumping into bed or curling up on the couch, to Emma Dickeson's TikTok series showcasing a trip to the ballet and a solo swim, this phenomenon is gaining traction.
But is there any harm in saving all the good stuff for the weekend? And how can this trend contribute to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle?
The Potential Benefits of Mid-Week Adventures
Emma Dickeson, a content creator from Naarm/Melbourne, highlights the positive impact of these 'school-night adventures'. She believes that devoting time and attention to activities that energize you can significantly enhance your well-being.
"It's reminded me that you don't need a perfect time or a big experience to enjoy life. Instead, joy can be found in the simple everyday moments," she says.
Work-Life Balance and Self-Care
Clinical psychologist Jaqueline Baulch emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, a concept that many individuals struggle with at various points in their lives. From burnout to a desire for more intentional time management, work-life balance is a prevalent concern for Baulch's clients.
"Incorporating activities or 'little pockets of self-care' into your week can help prevent burnout," she advises. "Sometimes we feel tied down by our jobs and lack independence while working. But there are ways to 'bookend' the beginning and end of the day, or even our lunch breaks, to regain some autonomy."
The Power of New Experiences
Sahra O'Doherty, president of the Australian Association of Psychologists, supports the idea that trying new things and shaking up your routine can be beneficial. She warns against falling into the trap of a monotonous post-work routine, as this can make it harder to break free from harmful habits later on.
"If our habit is to come home, face plant on the couch, and then doom scroll for hours before going to bed, it becomes more challenging to break that habit later," she explains. However, she emphasizes that the activity must be 'healthy and helpful'.
The Benefits of Hobbies and Physical Activities
Stacey Parker, an associate professor and organizational psychologist, agrees that regularly engaging in hobbies, creative pursuits, or physical activities offers numerous advantages. Research, as cited by Parker, demonstrates that these activities can effectively help individuals recover from work stress.
"These 'daily practices' can positively impact sleep, health, energy, and overall well-being," she states. "They can also have a small positive effect on work performance."
The Pitfalls of Passive Relaxation
Parker clarifies that while passive relaxation, such as phone scrolling or binge-watching, may not be detrimental in the evenings, it is not particularly beneficial either. She advocates for activities that challenge and require you to master something after work, as these are 'particularly good' for disconnecting from work demands.
Finding Your Personal Work-Life Balance
Baulch acknowledges that finding the right work-life balance is a personal journey. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it often requires a 'real juggling act'. Some individuals may find compartmentalizing their week into weekdays and weekends helpful, while others may prefer a different approach.
"Everyone's different, and for some people, that might be a good way to take care of themselves," she says.
Prioritizing What Energizes You
Baulch emphasizes the importance of prioritizing activities that energize you. Instead of feeling pressured to do something exciting every night, focus on what makes you feel good and replenished. The key question to ask yourself is, 'What gives you energy back?'
In conclusion, the 'not just living for the weekend' trend on social media can be a positive force, encouraging individuals to prioritize self-care, try new experiences, and find their unique work-life balance. By embracing this trend, you can enhance your overall well-being and create a more fulfilling lifestyle.
