It happens to many hard-working individuals. They look forward to the end of the workweek but spend the weekend doing things that cause stress. To change this cycle, shift your thinking by taking advantage of the break in the work schedule to rest and recharge. While not every person’s agenda allows for complete downtime, even using some of these steps can help slow the pace down.

Start the Day on the Right Foot

Instead of checking the phone first thing in the morning, grab a cup or glass of a favorite morning beverage and enjoy it outdoors. Even though Calgary weather is rarely perfect, don’t let clouds, sprinkles or a few snowflakes get in the way. Pick up paper and a pencil, and make two lists: One for the things you want to do, and one for the tasks that you don’t. Focus on the former items but avoid the latter. If you can’t put off cleaning or can’t call in a cleaning service, set a timer and stop when time is up.

Bring Flowers into the Home

Even without access to a garden or at the end of the growing season, you can enjoy cheerful blooms. Just stop by a flower shop, market or farmstead to pick some up. Arrange the fresh flowers in vases and display them near the bed, in the kitchen, on the bathroom vanity, and other places that need a touch of nature.

Explore the Neighborhood

Even a seemingly boring neighborhood offers much to discover, if you leave the car behind. Opt for a bike ride or stroll, and set out to discover a new shop or café. If the neighborhood doesn’t have any, visually explore how curb appeals differ, what kind of trees line the streets and what types of plants people grow in their gardens.

Refresh Yourself and the Living Space

When coming back from neighborhood exploration, make a pitcher of fancy water. Add fresh herbs and slices of cucumber, orange or lemon. Enjoy a glass while browsing a favorite magazine or coffee table book.

While listening to music, create a different ambience for your living space. Don’t buy anything, but use what’s already on hand. Move things around, put up new family photos or create new art. Remember that this isn’t about cleaning, so resist the urge to tidy up.

Shop Differently

If you enjoy shopping, make it part of your agenda for a relaxed weekend. However, stay away from big stores and malls. Instead, check out flea markets, consignment boutiques and other local shops.

Spend Time with Friends

If you usually don’t have time for socializing, make it a point to invite friends for tea, a backyard picnic, or a vacation-type dinner as part of a relaxed weekend in your Calgary home. Unless it relaxes you, avoid cooking a big meal. You could use a catering service or hire a private chef instead.

In a perfect world, you could implement these ideas without dealing with bumps in the road. In reality, spouses, kids and other family members are likely to place demands. Even if you’re single, friends might be used to your unlimited availability and make it hard for you to unwind. Either involve them (as long as they abide by your plans), or let everyone know upfront that you’re taking a time-out. Remind everyone that they’ll benefit from your sunnier disposition when Monday rolls back around.