Monday, December 11th, 2023
Hello, cherished readers!
Welcome to our first Mental Health Monday blog! Today, we’re diving into a common yet often overlooked challenge – the ‘weekend blues.’ You know that feeling, right? The lingering nostalgia of a fun weekend and the daunting prospect of a work week ahead. It’s normal but doesn’t have to derail your Monday motivation. If you have been reading along, you will know that I was recently discharged from my beloved five-year position. While I try not to let it bother me and, for the most part, focus on the opportunities it has opened up for me to explore, there are days it gets me down.
Ultimately, I have taken this as a sign from the universe to dive into my lifelong passion for writing, building a community, and earning a living from what I love. Paired with the winter blues, the holiday season fast approaching, and the requirement of incredible discipline, I sometimes find myself having those sneaky intrusive thoughts of doom enter my mind. I must remind myself that this is the right move and direction to fulfill me.
One of the critical directives I have focused on is maintaining my weekly routine. Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM EST to 6:00 PM EST, you will find me in my office working on my upcoming book, “Life In Stitches.” You will see me writing blog posts, working on building a community on Instagram and exploring ways I can earn enough of a living to sustain myself while continuing to build out my future throughout 2024 and beyond. Friday evening begins my weekend. I shut down my computer and turn off my new position as author and blogger. It is a routine behavior I want to reinforce because structure is paramount in ensuring a happy, healthy me!
Over the weekend, I read! That is my favorite way of spending downtime. I will hop on social media, make a few posts, scroll a little, and grab pen and paper when inspiration strikes; ultimately, my weekend fills my cup with rest and relaxation for Monday and the week ahead. So, here I am, Monday morning, and ready to go. I’m invested, motivated, and feeling good about the future. Mondays are often a struggle point for many people, including myself.
So, let’s explore some practical tips to shake off those blues and set the stage for a productive week.
Embrace the Blues, Then Let Them Go
First and foremost, it’s okay to acknowledge those post-weekend feelings. Allow yourself a moment on Monday morning to reflect on the weekend’s highlights. Then, gently shift your focus to what lies ahead. This conscious transition is a simple yet effective way to mentally prepare for the week.
Create a Sunday Ritual
Preparation is key. Design a Sunday evening ritual that helps you transition into work mode. This could be as simple as setting your clothes for Monday, preparing a healthy lunch, or jotting down your top three priorities for the week. This ritual can be a calming end to your weekend and a proactive step towards a smoother Monday.
Start with a Mindful Morning
Instead of rushing into Monday, start with a mindful morning. Wake up earlier and engage in a calming activity – meditation, a short walk, or a cup of tea in silence. This practice can significantly reduce anxiety and set a positive tone for your day.
Break the Ice with Something Enjoyable
Ease into your workday with a task or activity you genuinely enjoy. It could be checking in with a favorite colleague, tackling a creative assignment, or enjoying your favorite breakfast at your desk. This can make the start of your workweek feel less like a chore.
Set Realistic Goals for the Week
While it’s great to be ambitious, setting realistic and achievable goals for the week can reduce overwhelming feelings. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate these small victories – they add up to significant accomplishments.
Incorporate Wellness Activities into Your Week
Don’t reserve self-care for the weekends. Plan short wellness activities throughout your week, like a midday walk, a yoga session, or even a quick catch-up with a friend. These moments can recharge you and improve your overall productivity.
Stay Connected with Your Emotions
Lastly, stay in tune with your emotions throughout the week. Don’t hesitate to take a short break or talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed or blue. Remember, taking care of your mental health is as important as meeting deadlines.
Closing Thoughts
Mondays don’t have to be the enemy. With some planning and self-compassion, they can transform into a springboard for a successful and fulfilling week. How do you combat the Monday blues? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below – let’s support each other in making Mental Health Mondays a positive start to our week!
Until next time, C.K.
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