This past few weeks have really tested me and my struggle with balance. I touched on it in this post, but it just happened that things in my professional life, personal life, and student life all converged with deadlines at the same time. I’m so excited and happy and proud about the opportunities that I’ve been given, but it has come with challenges, too. Namely, figuring out how to do everything that I want to do, see my friends, and also sleep.

What I’ve come to realize is that balance isn’t about the day-to-day – it’s about the longer term. So I took some time this weekend to try to even things out a bit. My weekend wasn’t completely work-free (if it was, there wouldn’t be a post for you to read!), but it was much more laid back and relaxed than usual.

I thought it’d be fun to share some of the things I do when I want to relax. Let me know your go-to things when you’re in need of a little R and R.

Comfort Viewing
When I want to just chill and turn my mind off, I love watching a tried-and-true movie that I know I love. I don’t have to think too hard, and I can just relax and enjoy. For me, my number one is The Devil Wears Prada. I love it and never get tired of seeing it!

Sleeping In
This is probably my absolute favorite thing to do on a relaxing weekend (or any weekend, really). There’s nothing better than staying in a nice, warm, snuggly bed. I sleep in and then get up slowly – really enjoy every moment of relaxing in bed! It’s the best.

A Little Reading
It’s hard for me to find time to read for pleasure during the semester, but I really miss it, so when I want to take some time for myself I love to crack open a (digital) book. I loved Alyssa Mastromonaco’s first book about her time working in the Obama White House, so as soon as I saw she had written another book, I knew I had to start reading ASAP.

Some Online Shopping
I realize this may not be the healthiest coping mechanism, but I do think that online shopping is a stress reliever! I have a really hard time finding heels that are comfortable (my ankles have contractures, which means they bend in really easily, and heels make it worse). But these Naturalizer ones are perfect – it’s a really low heel, but the pointy toe keeps them from looking too much like a granny shoe!

This post contains affiliate links; I may earn a small commission for any purchases you make.