Top 10 Ways for Dads to Take A (Well-Deserved) Time Out

November 03, 2010, By Sean Platt 1 comment

I'm constantly racing the clock, steering the ship and feeling the tightening of pinched time. Too much to do in too little time - may as well be my motto.

But you know what they say, 'all work and no play' makes dad, well, dad.

We’re all scrolling through a mental list of a 101 things we’d rather do than work. Instead of daydreaming, take a time out and indulge yourself. As dads, we have to make time for ourselves. It's about balance. It's about making sure we are the best dad we can be by being the best men we can be.

By reclaiming what’s yours, you will feel less resentful and more productive. Here are my top 10 ways for dads to give themselves a well deserved time out.

1. Leave the office early. Changing the rhythm of your work day can make you feel like you’re banging the drum rather than writhing through the routine of any other day. Make sure you do something fun or relaxing. Don’t spend the day catching up on chores or it will be the same song, different beat.

2. Take a walk. Whether you’re on a trail or a treadmill, walking gives you time to decompress and get the exercise your body needs. Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise and works for nearly everyone. Just one mile a day can help burn 100 calories and lead to the loss of 10 pounds a year.

3. Take care of yourself. Looking your best doesn’t mean you’re vain. Getting a good haircut or heading to your favorite clothing store for a fresh look is a quick way to feel good about yourself, keep yourself motivated, and help you walk a little taller.

4. Indulge in decadent desserts. Don’t feel guilty about your sweet cravings. Indulge your sweet tooth - get an ice cream, a slice of cake or a yummy piece of chocolate. Learn to truly enjoy sweets and life will be a little bit better.

5. Eat carry-out. If you’re the family chef, then take a break, pick up the phone and order some of your favorite carry-out. If cooking isn’t usually your job, then be a hero and order in anyway.

6. Take a nap. Nothing fixes a stressful day faster than a nap. Your brain requires rest and nothing can feel more refreshing than a 20 minute power nap. Find a fluffy pillow and a sunny spot, then give yourself the chance to feel energized by a brief rest.

7. Get a massage. You work hard and your body gets tired. Reward the work you do by getting the ache rubbed from your body. You don’t have to be an athlete or maintain a rigorous physical schedule to benefit from a massage. Life is stressful. Even a short 30 minute massage can leave you feeling like a new man.

8. Take a vacation. An over scheduled lifestyle takes its toll on you physically, emotionally and mentally. A short vacation is the perfect way to leave the stress, and learn the art of living by changing your emotional state. Getaways with the family are great, but try a getaway with the guys. Two days of golf or fishing just may add years to your life.

9. Play games. Video games, card games, board games or bowling all introduce frivolous ways to keep your brain bouncing and energy burning. Press pause on life and remember what it felt like to simply play. 

10. Go shopping. It can feel like a treat when you buy something for yourself. The feeling of indulgence can boost your mood and help you feel rewarded for all the work you do. If clothes are your think, buy new jeans or a sweater. Like to fish? Hit the fly shop. Tim away focusing on something you like can be time well spent.

You’re better company when relaxed. So be a good friend to others (and yourself) by taking time to rejuvenate and relax today.

How do you spend 'you' time? Let us know below.