How to Reclaim Your Weekend

A new book explains how we lost our work-life balance, why it matters, and what to do about it.

It’s funny how my weekends no longer feel like weekends of yore. Instead of spending time in play, exercise, or community pursuits, often as not I end up catching up on work, answering emails, or doing chores. Needless to say, this does not lead to a rejuvenated me come Monday morning.

But isn’t this simply the new reality of modern life? Shouldn’t I just get used to it? The answer is a resounding no, according to journalist Katrina Onstad’s book The Weekend Effect. Onstad outlines how weekends came into being and how their purpose has eroded over time, as well as the many reasons why we shouldn’t let that trend continue. She makes a plea for leisure and meaningful pursuits outside our jobs, explaining how to disentangle ourselves from the cult of overwork so that we can live fuller, happier lives. To read more from Jill Suttie, click here.