I read this article last week at
Bella Mumma and it really stayed with me. Monday's can often be the pits but I thought this was wonderful advice. Last night I went to bed early and got up and went for a run this morning. Already I feel GREAT!
Here are 4 tips to help guarantee a great start to the week...
1. Use the Weekend as a Springboard
A few weeks ago I shared what a typical work day looked like for me, and while every weekend has its own unique identity, there are a handful of regular things I make sure to do before Monday rolls around in order to help make Monday as successful and productive as possible. Here are my five regular things to do during the weekend no matter what else I may have planned.
Check off the To-Dos
There are usually errands that can’t be completed during the week that begin to pile up just waiting to be dealt with when Saturday arrives. Take the time to group them all together and complete them on Saturday rather than Sunday so that you aren’t burdening yourself with the reminder all weekend of this nagging task.
Stay on Schedule
With regards to your body, try to sleep 6-8 hours as well as staying as close to your “to bed” and “to rise” times as well. Adhering to the same times as best as possible keeps your body in a rhythm, so that when Monday arrives, waking up at five, six or seven, isn’t a shock.
Relax
Scheduling time to relax is a must. After all, unwinding and getting lost in activities we love is what the weekends are for. In order to perform our best during the week, we must strike a balance and rejuvenate over the weekend.
Don’t Overbook
Simply because everything you have planned for the weekend involves activities and people you love, be diligent about not overbooking yourself which may potentially cause you to see the week as more of a respite than the two day weekend. Be savvy with your energy levels and time. After all, we only have so much to give and use.
A Moment to Plan
Sunday night prepare yourself with your planner for what you want to accomplish that week. This is also a great time to plan the week’s meals, create a grocery list and make sure all of the clothes you will need are washed, laundered and ready to be worn. Also try to plan weekly meals, Grocery Shop, Laundry – ironing, dry cleaners, etc
2. A Workout is a Must
Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, made a simple suggestion for a happier week... always workout on Monday. Why? Beginning the week by checking one workout off your list immediately as the week begins and taking the time to take of your body is sure to have a positive effect on your energy levels and mood.
3. Tackle the Tough
First when you get to work, choose to complete a task that will bring great relief when it is successfully put to bed. Knowing you have been quite productive early in the week provides inspiration and lifts your confidence as you proceed through the week, ultimately setting a positive tone.
4. A Good Night’s Sleep
Go to bed at a decent time, so that when that alarm clock begins to sing, you are capable of starting the day out on the right foot.
With these simple tips, Monday no longer has to be a day to dread, but instead can become a day to ground us and begin the week on a very good note.
Thanks
The Simply Luxurious Life
Images via: Vogue, Lonny Mag, Young and Free in the Sun
