Embracing a French Sunday—a complete day of rest—might be the secret to a healthier, happier life, and to dreading Monday less, according to a new theory. The idea of being deliberately unproductive is certainly tempting, but the only concern is that you might enjoy it too much.
The French Approach to the Sabbath
The theory suggests that in France, the Sabbath really is a complete day of rest. The French are not running errands, cleaning, or batch cooking. Instead of trying to do everything, they do nothing. This approach, known as the French Sunday—or le dimanche français, as nobody is calling it—is said to be transformative, stamping out the Sunday Scaries for good.
The Antithesis of Modern Efficiency
The idea of being deliberately unproductive feels bold and controversial because it is the antithesis of the modern way of life, where we cram as much as we can into every single second, all aiming to become the most efficient, effective, and prolific versions of ourselves. As Polly Hudson, a freelance writer, notes, "Sacré bleu, exhausting!" No wonder we are not looking forward to climbing back on the hamster wheel on Monday; we have not given ourselves a break, in either sense.
Recharging, Not Slothfulness
A French Sunday is not a waste of a day. It is not about being slothful; it is about staving off burnout and recharging. Instead of running yourself ragged trying to wring the most out of the weekend, you are sleeping in, vegging out, relaxing, lolling, and pottering, while thinking chic thoughts, or whatever. Perhaps reading a bit, although holding a book takes a lot of energy, so caution is advised.
Potential Pitfalls and Extending the Trend
The only potential pitfall with the French Sunday is enjoying it too much, climbing too enthusiastically on board, and trying to extend it. Hudson doubts many bosses would approve a proposal to introduce a company-wide French Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but, as she puts it, "God loves a trier." She wishes readers "Bonne chance" with that. The concept, while appealing, remains a personal practice rather than a workplace policy, but for those willing to try, it offers a promising antidote to the weekly grind.
