Ah, Monday, the uninvited guest that crashes your weekend party, eats all your snacks, and then demands you be productive. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your laptop on Monday morning wondering if you really need this job (spoiler: rent says yes), then you, my friend, need a weekend reset.
The good news? A few strategic weekend habits can make Monday suck a little less. Maybe even, dare I say it?, manageable. Here’s your game plan:
1. The “Bare Minimum” Sunday Reset
Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend Sunday deep-cleaning like a 1950s housewife. But a bare minimum reset? That’s doable. Take 30 minutes to:
- Clear the kitchen counter (because Monday should not start with last Friday’s dishes).
- Toss out that mystery Tupperware from the fridge (RIP leftovers, we hardly knew ye).
- Lay out your Monday outfit (so you don’t end up in a panic wearing mismatched socks and regret).
This isn’t about perfection, it’s about damage control. Future You will thank you.
2. Actually Enjoy Sunday Night (Without the Dread Spiral)
You know that sinking feeling when the sun sets and you realize Monday is lurking? That’s Sunday Scaries, and they’re out to ruin your night. Instead of spiraling, take control:
- Plan something fun, a movie, a dinner out, or a trashy reality TV binge.
- Use the “five-minute brain dump” method: Write down any lingering tasks or worries so they don’t keep you up at 2 AM.
- Set an alarm you don’t hate (because nothing says “instant rage” like a blaring siren at 6 AM).
3. Do One Thing That Feels Like Self-Care (Not an Obligation)
Self-care isn’t just sheet masks and bubble baths, it’s anything that makes you feel human. The key? Choose something that’s for you, not for Instagram. Maybe it’s:
- Reading a book (that’s not work-related).
- Ordering your favorite coffee without guilt.
- Saying no to plans because your couch deserves quality time, too.
4. Batch the Boring Stuff (So You’re Not Scrambling at 7 AM)
Look, no one wants to meal prep, but no one wants to pay $18 for a sad desk salad either. Do Future You a favor and batch some basics:
- Chop up some fruits and veggies so you have actual food choices.
- Prep a few go-to work outfits so Monday doesn’t start with “I have nothing to wear!” drama.
- Refill your coffee supply because running out on a Monday is not an option.
5. Give Yourself a Fake Monday
Here’s a trick: Do one “Monday” thing on Sunday. Respond to a non-stressful email, glance at your calendar, or draft a to-do list. This tricks your brain into soft-launching into the workweek, making Monday feel like less of a shock.
Bonus: It makes you feel weirdly accomplished, even if you spent the rest of Sunday in pajamas.
6. Go to Bed Like You Have Your Life Together
Sunday night scrolling is a trap. You think you’re just checking one thing, and next thing you know, you’re deep into an influencer’s morning routine that involves waking up at 4 AM and drinking celery juice.
Let’s keep it real:
- Put your phone away 30 minutes before bed (or at least switch to night mode).
- Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep, because showing up to Monday exhausted is a rookie mistake.
- Set a realistic alarm (no, you are not waking up at 5 AM to meditate).
Ready to Make Mondays Less Miserable?
Look, Mondays will never be Friday. But with these weekend habits, they don’t have to feel like a slow march into the abyss. What’s one thing you’ll try this weekend to make Monday suck a little less? Drop it in the comments, I’ll be cheering you on (from my couch, with coffee in hand).