A Great Time for a Coup

In the US, Labor Day weekend is upon us. Monday (Labor Day) is commonly a day off, and it’s known as the summer’s send off, where people barbecue, lounge by the pool or kick back at the beach. Ironically, it’s about not laboring. 

It has occurred to me that I’ve never ever had an un-laborous Labor Day weekend. It has always felt unsettled as it is a major cusp, where some things are leaving and new things are coming. There’s a subtle panic of, “Oh, I’ve gotta get all my ducks in order.” The powers that be really sell the whole relaxing weekend thing, but it’s the exact opposite for me, and I find most of my female friends feel the same way. That’s why – and this is the honest truth – we dream about Tuesday!

This year is going to be different though. This year, my Labor Day weekend will nourish me. By the time Tuesday comes and people ask, “How’s was your holiday weekend?,” I’ll be able to reply, “It was great,” and mean it. I’m not waiting until Tuesday. Instead, I’m going to consciously curate exactly what I want and need.

STEP ONE: LIGHTEN UP
I’m going to do a very basic level of decluttering and organizing. This might be tidying up around the house, getting the family calendar established, and/or taking a bag of old clothing to Goodwill. 

STEP TWO: LEAD WITH INTUITION
I’m going to feel into what I need. Do I need more exercise, more sleep? Do I need to connect with my long lost friends? Do I need to get outside? 

STEP THREE: OPTIMIZE TIME
I’m going to say no to whatever I can, in order to free up my schedule and ease my workload. Looks like I’m not going to the parade, and sorry, I’ll be missing that store’s sidewalk sale. Have fun without me, folks! If it’s not nourishing, it’s a no. 

Labor Day weekend is the perfect time of year to attempt a “my needs matter coup” because it’s not a religious holiday nor is it overtly family-related. It’s also not the end of the year where tying up loose ends can be urgent. Labor Day weekend can be whatever you want it to be. 

So here’s your chance to make it all about you! It may seem selfish, but there’s a gorgeous paradox at play. When you are well-rested, well-fed, and  energized, inspired and restored, notice how much more you are able to inject into the world.  

My perfect weekend is ______.  

Let’s Move! 🤗