Five Ways to Actually Look Forward to Mondays

Fact: Mondays aren’t exactly everyone’s favorite day of the week.  Sometimes even thinking about Monday morning may trigger feelings of anxiety and depression.  You’re not alone.  However, are those negative feels stemming from you or the social stigma behind this day?  Or perhaps they’re stemming from the uncertainty we’re all facing together with COVID-19.  We get it.

Despite it all, we’re finding new ways to turn Monday into the best day of the week!  Okay, second best day.  If you want to start your week off on a positive note, make it happen with these five proven strategies:

1. Connect to yourself when you wake up.

Instead of checking your favorite news app first thing in the morning, swap the screen time with something that could benefit your health instead.  For instance, allowing yourself five minutes to practice deep breathing will leave you feeling better than any Twitter post ever could.  Another option we love is moving the body to release tension.  Kickstart your energy by walking around the block or practicing an at-home workout.  Lastly, taking L-Theanine before you start your work day may help you remain so focused that not even your looming deadlines can kill your vibe.

2. Pick a mantra for the new week.

No matter what obstacles come your way throughout the day, your mind is your greatest asset. Having words of affirmation to fall back on can cut off negative thinking and keep you focused on what truly matters. For example, this week’s mantra at SR is, “I’m in control of my happiness.”  Regardless of what happens on Monday, YOU are the only one who is able to shift negative thoughts into positive ones.

3. Spend 30 minutes to set goals for the week. 

We cannot stress enough how important it is to incorporate structure to your week.  It’s imperative to luxuriate in self care over the weekend, but using Monday as a day to get back on track with a routine will help ease the stress that weekdays can bring.  Make a list of the things you need to get done and organize them by priority to help you stay on course.  For example: If you’ve been putting off folding your laundry, choose a day to get that done so you aren’t stressed every time you come home from work.

4. Create a playlist that inspires and motivates you.

Spend a few minutes Sunday evening to put together a playlist that you can listen to while you get ready for work.  If you notice that commercials on the radio annoy you or you get tired of listening to the same songs, be your own hero and create a personalized playlist.

5. Nourish your body.

Good food equals a good mood!  If you’re starting Monday morning off with doughnuts and sugary beverages, you’re not going to feel as energized as the day goes on. Instead, use Monday as a way to detox or get back on track with your health goals.  Maybe splurge a little more on a green smoothie or an organic meal.  Make Monday a day to invest in yourself.    

Congrats. You now have the tools to allow Monday to be your favorite day of the week…or at least more tolerable.