I’m not entirely sure how it happened, but mattress sales on Memorial Day are ubiquitous across the United States.
Then, there are the home good sales.
And the linen sales.
And the lawn furniture.
And the list goes on.
While I have nothing against scoring a bargain on something you actually need, no one should feel that shopping–or spending–is a requisite part of a three-day weekend.
If you need a little inspiration, check out these no-spend ideas:
Show your gratitude.
We all have so much. Sometimes, though, it’s easy to lose sight of what we have, especially when we’re deeply entrenched in stretches of self-improvement. Take time today to really consider all of your fortunes. Maybe it’s your freedom, your family, your friends, or something else entirely. Think about it, journal about it. Even better, tell someone else about it.
Go outside.
While many advertisements would lead viewers to believe that they should stop off and pick up a container of brats and six-pack of beer after scooping up that cooling, memory foam mattress, you don’t actually have to grill out. Sure, a BBQ is one way to get outside. But maybe go for a walk instead. Look up some local hiking trails. Get out in your yard. Even if you don’t really have a yard, you can do some windowsill planting and regrow your own veggie scraps. Soak up the fresh air today.
Spend time with family or friends.
While it’s certainly true that Memorial Day pays tribute to military members who gave their lives for our country, it’s always a good day to (re)connect with family or friends. If you have loved ones who have served or are serving in the military, what better day than today to thank them for their sacrifice? Veterans in your family tree or in your very own neighborhood certainly deserve a phone call or a friendly wave, too. Whether you know any servicemen or servicewomen, today is the perfect day to pause your busy schedule and catch up with the people who matter most.
Give back.
There are tons of charitable organizations that do great things for active military and veterans. And regardless of how you feel about giving money, there are many other ways that you can help. You can organize care packages, create cards, or write letters to deployed troops, wounded heroes, new recruits, and veterans. It’s a great activity to do by yourself, and it’s equally fun to invite others in on the action.
If you are willing to support veterans financially, you could consider the Fisher House Foundation and Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation. They have nearly perfect ratings on Charity Navigator! Or you can quickly do your own research using any number of criteria at Charity Navigator to support wounded veterans, military family members, and military social services.
Additionally, there’s a good chance you’ll also encounter people selling poppies to support your local VFW. Even if you’re flirting with minimalism like I am, wear your poppy with pride. It’s worth it!
Plan ahead.
Use your extra day off to get something done that you’ll thank yourself for come the middle of the week. Maybe it’s a little extra decluttering. Maybe it’s getting ahead on a project for work. Maybe it’s meal prep, yard work, or scheduling appointments. Put in a few extra minutes of work today, and you’re bound to make yourself much happier this week.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Besides Buying a Mattress This Weekend
See? No mattress needed this weekend.
Regardless of where you are or what you do, take a moment to reflect on all the bounty in your life. No matter where you are on your journey to self-improvement, we all have reasons to be grateful, especially for the sacrifices that some people made for our country.
So Tell Me…How are you spending this long weekend? Do you tend to avoid these kinds of sales or are you strategic about them?
I will be enjoying a beautiful day outside with the family.
Today is a great day to reflect on the great lives and freedom we have in this country due to the sacrifices of so many. Thanks for giving everyone that reminder!
You nailed this headline – it actually made me laugh out loud!
Ha! It’s such a weird phenomenon.
Exactly! Why does it always have to be about money and buying stuff? Take this time to spend with family and be grateful for the sacrifices all people have made to have what we have.
Great post!
Thanks so much, Liz!
No sales shopping here, we spent the day at home, enjoying the company of family and a select few friends. A little bit of work, a little bit of relaxation, it was really nice to get a wee bit of a break from the usual work-a-day routine.
I love this so much, Revanche! Glad you were able to have a little break.
Yes, thanks for the reminder about gratitude! We enjoyed the day with old friends while our little rugrats all ran around together. It was pretty great. Made even better by the fact that the school year is over now, so I didn’t have to rush around and get ready for the week! 🙂 Talk about gratitude!
Amen! I’m right there with you on the slower days and less rushing.
Did you listen to the recent Freakonomics podcast episode about mattress stores?!
I’m stuck in the office (not a holiday in Canada) so won’t be purchasing anything.
I have no idea that Memorial Day is associated with mattress sales. If you need a new mattress, it makes sense to buy one when it’s on sale though. We recently purchase a new mattress and it was money well spent.
We did trade in our car for a bigger one to get ready when baby #2 arrives but other than that it all about spending time with family. We went strawberry picking with the little one and my laws. We picked about a couple pounds of strawberries and the little one loved picking them out. So much fun for everyone!!
“Show your gratitude.
We all have so much. Sometimes, though, it’s easy to lose sight of what we have, especially when we’re deeply entrenched in stretches of self-improvement. Take time today to really consider all of your fortunes. Maybe it’s your freedom, your family, your friends, or something else entirely. Think about it, journal about it. Even better, tell someone else about it.”
I’m amazed at how the lesson of ‘try to feel gratitude’ is always so pertinent & helpful. You’d think it would be part of my routine by now, but it still always seems like a bit of an epiphany. We have it so good, and I’m so dang lucky…I just keep forgetting.
Alas, I worked this weekend, so no celebrating for me. Still, I’m immensely grateful for everyone who has given their life for this country. Sounds awfully cheesy, but there it is.