Vacation Mindset: Bring a Little Vacation Back Home

This post might be a little different from what I usually share, but while I’m on vacation, I had some thoughts I wanted to write down—and maybe they’ll inspire you too.

We often fall into our usual routines: work, chores, errands, the same weekend plans, and the same social circles. It’s not bad—it’s our comfort zone. But then… vacation happens, and something shifts.

Vacation mode ON!

Is it just me, or does a whole new version of yourself come to life the moment vacation starts? Sure, we’re not dealing with our day-to-day responsibilities, but I’ve realized it’s more than just having a break. It’s about how we feel, how we interact with others, and how we show up for ourselves.

So here’s a thought: what if we brought a little bit of that “vacation you” into our everyday life?

1. Dress to Feel Good

Let’s be honest—most of us overpack for vacation. We want to look cute every day, we plan outfits we’re excited about, and we take the time to feel good in what we wear. At home, it’s easy to live in workout clothes (guilty!), but imagine how your confidence would shift if you added a “vacation outfit” to a random Wednesday. Pick something that makes you feel great and wear it—just because.

2. Be More Social

On vacation, we say hi to strangers, spark up conversations, and smile more. It’s like Miss Congeniality mode gets turned on! Back home, we tend to rush or keep to ourselves. What if we brought that open, friendly attitude into our daily lives? Say hi to the person next to you in line, compliment a stranger, or just smile more—you never know how it might brighten someone’s day (including yours).

3. Try New Things

We’re always seeking new experiences when we travel—new restaurants, new activities, new places. Why not treat the weekend like a mini vacation? Explore your own city, support a local business, cook something new, or say yes to a spontaneous plan. Life doesn’t have to feel repetitive, even when you’re not away.

4. Move More, Naturally

Vacations often involve way more movement than we realize—walking around, exploring, beach strolls, or just staying active without even thinking about it. At home, we often separate “exercise” from our daily life, but what if we didn’t? Take the stairs, go for a sunset walk, stroll to get your coffee. Little movements add up and make you feel great.

5. Keep That Positive Attitude

Isn’t it funny how vacation mornings feel so exciting? We wake up in a good mood, looking forward to the day. What if we could bottle up just a little of that energy and sprinkle it into our routine? Start your day with something that brings you joy—coffee outside, a favorite playlist, a few minutes of journaling. It doesn’t have to be big to make an impact.

I hope you have a vacation on the calendar soon—and when you do, take notice of how you feel and what lights you up. Then, bring a little piece of that energy back with you.