Shweta Jhajharia tells us how to avoid the Sunday Scaries and start the week feeling fully in control.
Here’s something that every human on the planet relates to – Mondays are difficult.
It’s funny how, even though we’re all so different, we somehow unite around this one thought. Ever wondered why?
There’s actually an interesting scientific basis for this phenomenon. A number of studies state that transitioning to a workday from the weekend negatively affects both the emotional and physical state of a working individual. The biggest factor in this is the change in the sleep-wake cycle. Everyone loves sleeping a bit longer on the weekend, causing what scientists call social jet lag –– a mismatch between your internal body clock and your work schedule –– which makes us hate Mondays even more.
Other than that, the thought of facing new weekly challenges head-on, making new commitments, and recalling all that you did last week builds up anxiety. This increases hormones like cortisol on Mondays more than on any other day of the week. So yes, the Monday blues are real. But I have something that can actually make you like Mondays (not love, obviously). And it takes just 5 minutes a week.
The Art of Enjoying Mondays
If you can see the path you are supposed to walk, you can choose the perfect footwear.
If you know what to expect on Mondays – not just that, THE ENTIRE WEEK – you’ll feel much more confident and comfortable before the week even begins. And the best way to do that is to check in with yourself in a structured manner.
I want you to sit quietly for 5 minutes before you log out on Friday and think about the following:
- The Win
Ask yourself – What have I achieved this week that can help me progress toward my goals?
The wins don’t have to be something grand –– just like how gestures matter more than grand gifts. Even if you’re just getting to grips with something that’s part of a bigger goal, it’s still a win. It’s important to acknowledge that yes, you’ve done a good job this week – so be proud of yourself!
- The Challenge
Ask yourself – What was your major challenge that you did or didn’t overcome?
This is important. Acknowledging challenges makes you stronger. It also makes you aware of how they might show up again next week. It helps you stay prepared and avoid repeating the same mistakes.
- What Is My Focus?
Ask yourself – Do you know your top focus for next week?
You may have a zillion tasks to do next week. Doesn’t mean you can’t have a priority. If you know which task is most important, there’s no way you’ll mess it up – which means you’ll do a good job.
- Wisdom Is Key
Ask yourself – Did you learn anything this week?
A new learning never goes to waste. Whether it’s technical, personal, or a random insight that helps you in life, – it builds awareness of your growth as a person. And believe me, that’s incredibly reassuring. It fuels you with confidence and passion to keep learning, making you better equipped for Monday’s new challenges.
- Got Any Questions?
Ask yourself – Am I troubled about any particular task that I need clarification on?
It’s always better to ask than to guess. If you don’t know what you’re doing, the chances are you won’t do it right. And you want to get it right on Monday to have a great start to the week. So, jot down your questions related to next week’s tasks and ask for clarity before you even begin.
- Want to Share Something?
Ask yourself – What do I want to share?
Don’t be an oversharer, but also don’t stay completely quiet. Keep the conversation open by sharing your thoughts and opinions on what’s going on. It shows people that you observe, you think, and you propose, and that makes you valuable.
What Do You Do With These Answers?
Once you’ve reflected on these points, just make a note and share it with whoever is in charge via email – also known as the 6-point Friday email.
If you don’t report to anyone directly, then share it with yourself! That’s right – self-awareness is your superpower to feel ready for Monday.
It’s also a great way to show your worth without having to say, “Look at everything I did!”
I hope you try this exercise with an open mind and start liking your Mondays – just like I do.
