Lean Quote: How to Relax This Labor Day

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us."   —  Maya Angelou

It seems like just yesterday that we were reuniting with loved ones during Memorial Day Weekend and the 4th of July. Even though summer days are longer, they somehow go by faster. Though summer technically doesn’t end until a couple of weeks after Labor Day Weekend, the holiday often marks the unofficial end of the season.

Soon, we’ll back to the busy fall season. Many people won’t get another day off until Thanksgiving. That makes it all the more important to spend the three-day weekend in a way that helps you feel relaxed and happy. Here are a few ideas for what to do on Labor Day.

Consider Some Off-The-Grid Relaxing

Since many consider Labor Day the end to the summer season, typical summer getaways, such as beaches and lakes, are likely going to be packed. If relaxation is what you’re after, it may be better to consider a more off-the-grid weekend away. That may mean looking into more out-of-the-way camping spots or maybe even taking a bit of a “staycation” and indulging in some “me time” at home.

Volunteer in the Community

Use your day off to give something back to your community. So many of the jobs that are still part of unions are in public service. You can plan a little something to give back to the teachers or nurses in your life. Put together care packages and little thank you cards. The entire family can get involved. This may not seem like the most relaxing activity, but the feeling you’ll get from giving back and helping out your community will bring you lots of joy on the holiday weekend. Spend a few hours doing something that will make you feel good and help someone else out in a big way.

Get out of Routine and Be Spontaneous

Be inspired to get out of the routine and discover something new about where you live. Find a parade, go see a movie, find a pool: in short, do something you wouldn’t normally do on a regular weekend. Take a hike. Explore a museum in your city you’ve always wanted to go to. Have a picnic in the backyard.

Celebrate With A Labor Day Cookout

The most common way to celebrate any summer holiday is with a cookout. So, fire up your grill, and instead of just hamburgers and hotdogs poolside, add ribs and chicken wings to the menu along with other staples of a great cookout. Make it a potluck by asking your guest to bring easy-to-make dishes like potato salad, baked beans, grilled corn, or pasta salad.

Consider Bringing the BBQ to You

Americans love grilling season (clearly, if you look at the sheer amount of hot dogs the country consumes every year). But putting together a menu for you and your loved ones may feel like an unnecessary hassle at the end of a long, hot summer. Your local eateries may be offering great Labor Day deals as well.

Gathering for a Labor Day party is all about chilling out, reminiscing, and making new memories. Whether you go all out with a big theme or just hang in the backyard, the important part is the quality time together. Enjoy the long weekend with your friends and family!