6 Things to do on Sundays to prepare for a productive week

Another Monday morning is almost upon us… whether you like it or not… things are about to get really stressful. We already feel overwhelmed just thinking about going from the carefree weekend to the structured chaos of the workweek. However, it doesn’t have to be the typical melodramatic day we all make it out to be. If you prepare for the week on Sunday, you may end up waking up and heading off to work.

If you’d like to give it a try, and actually greet Monday with vigor (for once), then here are some things you should do on Sunday, to feel more prepared for the week ahead.

1. Make A To Do List  

When there are a lot of things that need to be done, write them all down and check them off. If you don’t write them down, the chances they will slip through the cracks increase exponentially. List them by deadline, and fill 10-15 minute gaps in your day by completing things that will make your life easier during the week ahead.

2. Get A Head Start On A Big Project 

If something is looming, causing you stress, like a big project or presentation, or an interview, set yourself up for success. Set aside time to practice for your presentation or interview so it will quell your anxiety, or spend an hour or so grinding through a big project you’re expected to complete so you’re not so overwhelmed by the week. Action tempers stress and anxiety, spending some time on this week’s major stressor will help you feel more prepared for the week.

3. Meal Prep 

When things get busy and stressful, diet and/or your wallet are often the first things that suffer. Prepping your meals for the week give you one less thing to think about in the morning and during the day, and will relax your mornings since you won’t need to rush to make breakfast and pack a lunch. Since preparing your own meals is also the most healthy way to eat, it gives you no excuse to stress eat fast food or grab something that will satiate a craving in the short term but weigh on your energy in the long term.

4. Exercise 

Finding time to exercise will help you manage your emotions during stressful times, and help release anxious energy in a healthy way. If you know it will be tough to find time to exercise throughout the week, make it a priority the Sunday before to spend some time exercising to calm your mind and body for the week ahead.

5. Plan Outfits For The Week

You’re going to be groggy on Monday (and Tuesday, and Wednesday…) morning, so plan for it by pairing up outfits before the week begins.

6. Remember To RelaxDo what you can to prepare for the week, but don’t spend your entire Sunday running around and exhausting yourself. Set aside time to relax, as that’s also an incredibly important way to spend the last day of your weekend.