12 April,2011 08:55 AM IST | | Razvin Namdarian
Anyone whose part of the rat race can tell you that the weekends are much looked forward to. However, in India where most work a six day week, the weekends are synonymous with Sundays. So it's no wonder then that when a long weekend, like the one for Gudi Padwa, comes along it's like manna from heaven for weary executives. Here's how can you make the most of your long weekend?
Shut your office door
We refer to this figuratively of course. When you leave on Friday evening and close the door to your office, you need to close the door on all things related to work. So no matter how tempted you are to start working on that new project or call a client to set an appointment for next week - forget about it. A good thing to do would be to switch off your cell phone, BlackBerry and enjoy the freedom.
Make time for family
A common grouse at home is that officegoers don't devote much time to family. A long weekend is the perfect time to take your family out -- shopping, movie, dinner, helping your kids with a school project, taking a turn on the kitchen, visiting relatives and friends. Surely there must be a million things which you have promised yourself you would do with your family and this is the time to do them.
Get fresh air
After being cooped up in a cubicle with artificial light for practically the whole week, use the weekend to get out in the open. Planning a picnic or trek for the weekend is a good idea, or just going for a walk in the park to reconnect with nature. Don't spend the weekend becoming a couch potato!
Catch up on your hobby
Everyone has an interest or a hobby which sometimes gets waylaid in the pressures of work. A long weekend gives you time to cultivate your hobby whether it's reading, tending to your balcony garden or painting -- it's the perfect way to unwind and face the week ahead.
Smell the roses
When was the last time you just took some 'me' time. Check into a spa and indulge yourself because you're worth it.
Avoid long commutes
You spend all week travelling and getting stuck in rush hour traffic. So while it may be very tempting to sneak off to Lonavala or some other weekend getaway, remember practically half the working population of the city would also have the same idea. Unless you are planning a trip off the beaten path where you won't have holiday traffic going in and coming out, you're better off planning some activity closer to home.
