No matter how much you love your job, Sunday night brings with it a certain amount of, well, I don’t want to say dread, but… what are some synonyms for dread, anyway?
OK, so hopefully it’s not that bad (and full disclosure, I really enjoy both my jobs) but if you want to start your working week on the best note possible – feeling rested, prepared and at peace with the end of the weekend – these easy-to-implement tips will help.
Move!
Sunday is the absolute best day to get up and move in a non-conventional way. Leave the squats for Monday to Saturday, and use your Sunday to try something different, like rock climbing, golf, hiking, or even just messing around in the park. Trying something new on a Sunday is a great way to have a laugh and open your mind so you’re ready for anything the week brings.
Take some ‘me-time’
I love nothing more than a cheeky Sunday afternoon nap to help me feel rested and pampered as I head into a brand new week. If you’re not so keen on daytime napping (sidenote: surely EVERYONE is keen on daytime napping?) you could try listening to a podcast, getting a pedicure (or DIY at home if you’re in savings mode), watching a movie, doing some gardening… the list is pretty much endless.
Prepare lunch and snacks for Monday
Most people find that the way they approach Monday filters down through the rest of their week. By packing a lunchbox (yes, us grown-ups can have them too!) filled with protein, leafy greens and complex carbs you’re far more likely to avoid that 3pm god-i-hate-Mondays dash to the store for chocolate. And if you continue this trend for the rest of the week? Bonus points for you!
Triage your emails
Now I’m not an advocate for taking your work home with you (and this may be controversial) but unfortunately in many roles it’s an inevitability these days. If you absolutely can’t leave work at work for the weekend, put aside 15-30 minutes on Sunday afternoon to go through your emails. Respond to any emergencies and flag anything that needs your attention. Then put your phone down (or even better – switch off your emails!) and get back to enjoying your day. By being structured with the time you spend working, you can avoid that almost subconscious constant checking of your phone, and still head into Monday feeling prepared.
Overdue catch-ups
Sometimes all you need on a Sunday is a cup of tea and a long chat with the people who know you best in the world. If – like me – your family is far too far away for your liking, I recommend grabbing your phone, finding yourself a comfy space in the sun somewhere and settling in for the long haul. It’s amazing the difference it can make to your wellbeing.
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