Let Me Teach You How To Steal Back Your Weekend

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Weekends were made for fun and relaxation, a moment for you to take a break from work to spend time doing something you enjoy. On your weekends, are you actually having fun and relaxing or are you stressed out and working?

Reclaiming your weekends is the first step to realigning your work/life balance - yes, they should be balanced. It requires a little effort, a bummer I know, but think about it, with a little planning you can get your free time back.

Ask yourself, what do you want to do, but haven't had the time for? Maybe you want to visit that new museum downtown, the cafe across the street or read a book from your growing list of "must reads." Think of one activity that makes you happy, then make time for it. Boundaries will prevent you from working during your weekends by removing or reducing work related tasks.

Boundaries are the key to keeping things separate - work and life in this case. When your weekend starts, take off your "work hat", don't answer your phone, email, Twitter, etc. unless you have to. Even when I’m home, I catch myself responding to work emails during my free time. These messages needn't be answered until Monday, but there I am, slaving away. For those who can establish boundaries, it's important to do so. It's time to break our "work all the time" attitudes.

Get Outta The House - If you work with technology, as I do, being at home is half the problem because all of my gadgets and toys are there. They just sit on my table, begging me to check my email, traffic stats and web pages. Find an activity that gets you out of your house so you can separate work from your weekends. The following tips will do the trick.

1. Exercise - Exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle. You'll feel and look great, plus you'll be out of your house. Download a new exercise video to your iPod and rock it the next time you go to the gym.

2. Explore Your Neighborhood - Going to a restaurant or cafe will surely get you out of your house. Without the computer as a distraction, you can catch up on your reading or enjoy a friend's company.

3. Movies - The movie theater is a simple and enjoyable option for reclaiming your weekends – just sit back and relax.

Cook A Meal - Cooking and eating meals is a great way to bring people together. Find a new recipe and try to cook it this weekend. You can develop a new skill and impress your spouse, friend(s) or roommate(s).

Hobbies - Hobbies will make your free time exciting. Before the weekend starts, make sure you have everything you need. I sometimes shy away from my hobbies because I'm unprepared. Nothing kills a guitar jam session like the lack of picks or strings! Be prepared and you'll be enjoying your hobby this weekend.

Find An Activity - I know you're excited to take back your weekend. Here are some cool resources to help you find activities. If you live in New York, visit Free NYC for free activities. Don't worry if you don't live in NYC, Yelp, CitySearch, DailyCandy and Thrillist will all help you find something for you to do this weekend.

Remember, the important point is that you claim your weekends for you and your loved ones. Whatever makes you happy is a great weekend activity. The goal is to work to live, not live to work.