For many people, weekends are synonymous with social events, family obligations, or date nights. But when you live alone, your weekends are entirely your own—free from external expectations or demands. This can be both liberating and overwhelming. Without structure, weekends can slip away in a blur of scrolling, binge-watching, and wondering where the time went.
But solo weekends can be more than just empty time to fill. They’re a chance to recharge, be productive, and fully enjoy your own company. Here’s how to make your solo weekends more fulfilling, intentional, and enjoyable.
Balance Rest and Productivity
One of the biggest challenges of solo weekends is finding the right balance between rest and action. Too much rest, and you may feel sluggish and disconnected by Sunday evening. Too much productivity, and you may not feel like you had any weekend at all.
How to Find the Right Mix:
- Start with a Check-In: Before the weekend begins, ask yourself—What do I need most right now? More rest? More creativity? More movement?
- Try a 50/50 Approach: Plan for half your weekend to be restful and half to be active or productive.
- Set a Simple Focus for Each Day: One day could be for recharging, the other for getting things done.
Example: My Saturdays normally start with a bit of a cleaning binge. By the end of the week, there’s nearly always something that I didn’t get around to doing through the week, and I know I’ll feel better if it’s not staring me in the face all weekend. So, I do that first.
I try to spend the rest of the morning being a bit more creative – working on my writing, or maybe some blogging work. No rush, no pressure, just moving things forward.
Afternoons, I’m open to what’s going on. Maybe I’ll spend time with family, maybe I’ll get on the motorbike and find some curves on the open roads. Maybe I’ll find some friends online, and we’ll go blow up some aliens or kill some zombies together.
Sundays, I’m more about relaxation.I might put a big cook on in the slow cooker, then spend my time in a book, or a series of movies. Maybe I’ll game some more, maybe I won’t.
Create a Weekend Ritual
When you live alone, weekends can blur together with weekdays unless you create rituals that make them feel distinct.
Ideas for Weekend Rituals:
- Start with something small. A special breakfast, a morning walk, or an unplugged coffee break can signal that the weekend has begun. For me, this is bacon and eggs, and breakfast at my dining table.
- A Saturday or Sunday tradition. Whether it’s movie night, an at-home spa session, or a long reading session, having a tradition makes weekends feel meaningful.
- A dedicated reset time. Use an hour on Sunday to prep for the week ahead—clean your space, plan meals, or set intentions.
Example: Make Sunday mornings your slow breakfast and journaling time, setting a relaxed tone before the new week begins.
Explore a Theme for the Weekend
Choosing a theme or focus for your solo weekend helps prevent it from feeling aimless. Your theme can be about rest, creativity, learning, or adventure.
Weekend Theme Ideas:
- The Rest Weekend: Pajamas, books, naps, long baths, no pressure to do anything productive.
- The Creative Weekend: Writing, painting, photography, or working on a passion project.
- The Learning Weekend: Watching documentaries, taking an online course, or diving into a new skill.
- The Mini Adventure Weekend: Exploring a new café, taking a long drive, or visiting a museum alone.
Example: Set a “Creative Weekend” and spend time on art, writing, or music. No pressure—just exploration.
Plan One Outing—Even If It’s Just for You
Solo weekends don’t mean you have to stay inside. Getting out of the house boosts mood and prevents isolation.
In general terms, I don’t crave company. But sometimes, I do like being out and around other people.
Easy Solo Outings:
- Visit a bookstore, museum, or coffee shop.
- Go for a long walk in a different part of town.
- Try a solo restaurant experience—sit at the bar, bring a book.
- Take a day trip somewhere new.
Example: Pick one small outing, like grabbing coffee at a new spot or taking a scenic walk.
Make Solo Weekends Feel Special
When you live alone, it’s easy to treat weekends like just another day. Making small tweaks to elevate your weekend can make a big difference.
Ways to Make Your Weekend Feel Different:
- Change up your space. Light candles, play music, rearrange your space slightly.
- Upgrade your meals. Cook something special or try a new recipe.
- Dress for the occasion. Even if you’re staying in, wearing something cozy or stylish can change your mood.
Example: Have a “fancy dinner for one”—cook something special, set the table, and make it feel like an event.
I do this once in a while – for a meal that I’ve spent a bit more time or money on. I’ll clean any detritus off my dining table (it does seem to attract it through the week), cook a good steak and matching sides, open a bottle of wine. I’ll put some good music on and just plain enjoy the meal.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Your Own Company
Solo weekends aren’t about “filling time”—they’re an opportunity to design your own ideal rhythm. Whether you want to relax, explore, create, or get things done, making small adjustments can turn solo weekends into something you look forward to, rather than just get through.
If you’re not sure where to start, pick one idea from this list and try it next weekend. Over time, you’ll discover what makes solo weekends feel rewarding for you.