Sometimes life can feel like one big to-do list. It always seems like there’s something to cross off. From school and work to house chores, errands and endless responsibilities, our moments of downtime should be savored. That time should be spent wisely.
After the hustle and bustle of our day is all said and done, what we do in our free time and who we spend it with shouldn’t feel like a chore or a burden.
Partaking in activities and outings we love should hold space.
When we think of our days off, we should relish knowing we’re in the driver’s seat. We have complete control of how we spend our 24 hours — and whom we spend that time with. Let’s face it, some people are extremely capable of draining our energy.
That’s why it’s important that we only surround ourselves with the ones who make us feel light and supported. This year, stop trying to force bad connections.
The list of filling one’s spare time with stuff they love can be endless. For me, getting cozy with a new novel, bouncing from one coffee shop to another — what can I say, I like a change of scenery — booking a massage, cooking brunch at my apartment, having a double feature on my couch, viewing my favorite comfort films, grabbing dinner with some pals and partaking in a few FaceTime calls with long-distance friends and family are what I use those moments of free time for.
Everything I mentioned is headache-free. Life is already challenging enough at times; there’s not enough ibuprofen in the world to cure a never-ending migraine. When we direct our attention and focus on things that boost our serotonin levels, stress and worry are significantly reduced. Doing things you love is just another act of self-care.
If there’s one thing that has stuck with me throughout my 20s, it’s this: life is meant to be lived the way we want to live it. There is no such thing as one “right” way. Instead of trying to mirror other people’s lives, spend time sculpting your personal journey.
Anything you have to talk yourself into is not the vibe. In a past column I wrote, “Why saying no is your superpower.” I think it’s time we reinforce that statement. Do you love it, or were you just invited?
This column is not a promotion to “bring back selfishness in 2026,” but rather to bring back self-respect, self-care and self-love.
In order to be a class act, we must spend time showing kindness to ourselves first.
When we put our energy and focus into things we love, we’re not only pouring positivity into ourselves but into the people around us. There’s an automatic enhancement of serenity and genuine happiness when we eliminate the negative in our lives and hone in on what we love.
Ava Francis is a 22-year-old journalism major from New Orleans.
