The Perfect Day Off: Derek Hubbard takes a cue from Ferris Bueller by making time for a little life outside of work

About this article:
The Perfect Day Off shows us what does rest actually look like for someone who never really stops? A senior marketer on their ideal day of complete unstructured time, what they reach for when nothing is required, and what it reveals about who they are when nobody is watching.

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” You likely recognize that quote from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and like me, you have probably seen the film more times than you can count. The first time I met Ferris, I was a kid, not much younger than he was in the film. So, the idea of playing hooky was equal parts thrilling and attainable. Even at that age, I knew spending some unstructured time away from school was just what the doctor ordered.

Fast-forward to now, and I still find myself reaching for time away. The Day Off crew certainly racked up their fair share of carnage (don’t try this at home), but I better understand just what Ferris meant. As passionate as each of us is about our work, we need to make intentional time to rest and recharge before we miss out on living while trying to make a living.

The Lesson

My first job was in video production, and I wanted to work hard and prove my worth. My schedule was traditional on paper, but production has its own clock. Soon after, I found myself executive producing a television show, which ramped up the work significantly. My CliftonStrengths Achiever kicked in big time, as I was squarely focused on the success of the show. No email was left unread, no phone call or text went unanswered. Even on days off, I was on, emergency or not.

The “always on” approach caught up with me fast. My sleep suffered. I was irritable with friends and family, I avoided taking any time off, and then the burnout set in. Ultimately, I began resenting the job I once loved. It taught me that self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary.

Now, before any day off or vacation, I make unplugging easier by preparing for it. I ensure my work is in a good place and my team has what they need while I am away. Sure, things will sometimes pop up. When they do, I ask one question: “Is this urgent?” If not, I know it can wait until I return, or I direct the person asking to someone who can help in the interim. It’s possible to unplug and disconnect. You have to make the decision, prepare for it, and stick to your guns.

My Perfect Day Off

So, what does it actually look like? Here’s one I enjoyed recently.

Morning

I love a slow morning, so I’m sleeping in. This gives my mind and body time to catch up with one another.

I take my daily multivitamin. Then I put on my favorite playlist full of house music.

Next, it’s time to cleanse and moisturize. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Afternoon

Did someone say brunch? I head to one of my favorite Dallas spots, Breakfast Brothers, to catch up with a friend over shrimp and grits.

Since the weather is nice, I opt for a leisurely afternoon stroll along the Katy Trail while listening to a meditation. Never underestimate the power of even a five-minute meditation.

Next, I read a few chapters of Project Hail Mary. I’m going to finish it one day!

Now it’s time to sweat, so I head to Barry’s for a workout (850 classes and counting). After a refreshing shower, I decompress in the infrared sauna, then bring my body temperature down in the cold plunge.

Evening

To cap off my day, I join a few friends for dinner and drinks at Hudson House. We laugh so hard we cry, grateful for another opportunity to connect and break bread.

Finally, I’m back home to unwind and get ready for the day ahead.

Yes, that does include hope-scrolling TikTok until I’ve laughed at least five times. Then, it’s lights out.

You Get Back What You Put In

Does rest come easily to me now? You better believe it does, but I had to learn it. I had to demand it, and above all else, I had to practice it. That’s the real shift in how I think about the perfect day off.

Somewhere along the way, I learned that the effort I put into taking care of myself paid off. After a real day off to focus on my well-being—mind, body, and soul—I can come back to work fresh and ready to tackle whatever opportunities and challenges await. I’m more appreciative of the work I get to do and the people I work alongside.

So, plan your day off, put the phone down, pick your playlist, and do the things you actually want to do. And just like Ferris said, “…look around once in a while…”

You deserve it.