Turn Your Weekend Into a Mini Vacation – Here’s Why It Works

Does your weekend often fly by in a blur of errands, chores, and catching up on life? You’re not alone. But what if treating your weekend like a mini vacation could change the way you feel about your time off?

According to Cassie Holmes, a happiness expert and author of Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most, this mindset shift might be exactly what you need.

The Science Behind the Weekend Vacation Mindset

Holmes conducted a study where participants were instructed to think of their weekend as a vacation rather than just another two days off. The results? A significant boost in happiness.

Participants embraced their time differently—they slept in a little longer, enjoyed more fun activities, let go of their to-do lists, and stayed present in the moment. Simply reframing their mindset turned a routine weekend into something restorative and memorable.

The Trade-Off: Chores vs. Chill

Of course, treating your weekend like a vacation may mean shifting your chores to the weekdays. But Holmes argues that the benefits outweigh the inconvenience. Having a weekend where you can truly kick back and recharge could make you more productive—and happier—during the week.

If committing to a full two-day vacation feels impossible, Holmes suggests starting small. Take just one day to relax and leave Sunday as your “get stuff done” day. The goal is to ease into the habit of prioritizing relaxation and enjoyment without completely upending your schedule.

Related: New Study Finds That Women Are Least Stressed Out On The Weekend!

When to Embrace the Vacation Vibes

Holmes recommends saving this approach for occasional use—like after a particularly demanding week—so it feels special and effective. By not overdoing it, the mini vacation mentality can remain a treat rather than an expectation.

So next time your weekend is approaching, consider swapping the hustle for some holiday vibes. Whether it’s one day or the full weekend, permitting yourself to unwind could be the reset button you didn’t know you needed.