Weekends are our time. Those two glorious days are reserved for relaxation, enjoying loved ones and – for some – wild and crazy fun. Regardless what you do over the weekend, returning to the swing of working can be difficult. They don’t call them Monday blues for nothing. Fortunately, there are ways you can overcome these humps and begin your weeks at full speed. Here’s how:
Get ample sleep.
In order to enjoy a properly functioning mind, log enough hours of sleep from Sunday to Monday. It’s recommended that adults get at least seven hours of sleep, so aim for that. By setting an earlier bedtime on Sunday evening, you could be making the difference between zombie-like and ready to go when Monday morning arrives.
Take a morning shower.
Whether you woke up with a lingering hangover or simply need a jolt, taking a shower in the morning can do the trick. The water will awaken your senses as well as ease your stiff muscles after having slept the night before. If your issue is a hangover, take the time to rectify your state of mind. Those lingering headaches and sluggish movements are nothing to scoff at. In fact, hangovers cost the U.S. economy approximately $160 billion annually. So if a simple morning shower can help you overcome those productivity-killers, take one.
Eat a healthy, satisfying breakfast.
There are a number of benefits associated with eating a healthy breakfast – one loaded in protein, fiber and whole grains. One of the positives is a keen sense of focus that follows throughout the morning and day. By preparing and consuming a nutritious meal on Monday morning, you can get your body and mind revved up for the tasks ahead.
Phone a friend.
Studies show that socializing and engaging with others is beneficial for your health. Not only that, but talking with others helps to sharpen your mind and make you feel happier. So while the Monday morning alarm can be a bummer, you can combat the negative feelings by calling friends or family before reaching the office. That way, by the time you walk into the workplace, you will have at least a little pep in your step.
Dress professionally.
Slip into something professional in order to look and feel more prepared for the day. You’ve always heard you should “dress for the job you want,” but when Monday morning grogginess is getting the best of you, it’s absolutely essential to have something keeping you looking physically sound. If you show up in sharp attire, people are less likely to notice how tired your face may appear.
Do the easy tasks first.
Getting into the work groove is a process. Chances are you will gain steam throughout the day. So, what better time to face the easiest tasks than in the morning when you’re at your worst? Do the mindless things when you’re feeling most mindless. By the time you need to complete difficult chores, you’ll hopefully be more awake.
Respond to emails.
When you’re feeling tired, wilted and flat, it might be best to stay behind a computer screen. By designating Monday morning as email time, you can get work done without having to engage with others face-to-face.
Avoid scheduling important meetings on Monday mornings.
Finally, when you have a say in scheduling, avoid Monday mornings. It’s not ideal to have important things to tend to when you’re not feeling 100%. Save meetings, conference calls and any other significant dialog for times later in the week.
By following those tips, Monday mornings will never again be as bad as they once were.