How to Do Absolutely Nothing — But Make It Look Good

There’s a fine art to doing nothing. Not the lazy, sweatpants-on-the-sofa kind (though, to be fair, even that has its place). I’m talking about intentional downtime. A bit of breathing room. The kind where your brain finally stops buzzing and you remember you’re not a walking email inbox.

Time off, for the modern gent, is less about escaping and more about restoring. It's not always jetting to the Amalfi coast (although, if you’re going — I’ll pack light). Sometimes it’s as simple as staying in, reading something decent, stretching out on a well-made sofa, and wearing loungewear that doesn’t make you look like you’ve given up.

I’ve always thought there’s something rather elegant about men who know how to unwind properly. The kind who’ve mastered a good pour, appreciate a decent playlist, and own a robe that doesn’t resemble a hotel castoff. It’s that quiet kind of confidence — knowing you don’t need to do to be.

So, what’s in a well-earned day off? Here’s what I recommend:

• A book you actually enjoy (biographies, travel, or something to make you laugh — avoid business books at all costs).

• A crisp, breathable polo that says, “Yes, I’m relaxed, but I haven’t lost my edge.”

• Slippers — the underrated heroes of home comfort.

• A playlist, preferably jazz or soul, to match the slower pace.

• And maybe a scented candle. I won’t tell if you won’t.

A proper day off is about pleasure in the details. It’s about sitting still without guilt. It’s about dressing for comfort andpride, even if your only audience is your dog and a delivery driver.

And if you happen to be browsing the site and spot a few ‘time off’ essentials — well, I’ll consider my job done.