Claiming Monday: Rewriting the Narrative

Monday. Just the word can send a shiver down some spines, right? It's the official start of the workweek, the end of the blissful weekend, and often, the beginning of a long list of "shoulds" and "to-dos." But what if we flipped the script? What if we decided that Monday wasn't a day to dread but to own?

We have navigated enough Mondays at our age to know that we don't have to let them define us. We've learned that we have the power to create our narrative and intentions and make Monday a day that sets the tone for a powerful and fulfilling week.

Let’s begin by approaching Monday with intention. Don't just stumble into it. Take a few moments on Sunday evening to reflect on your goals for the week. What do you want to accomplish? What do you want to feel? Write it down, visualize it, and set your intention for a positive and productive week. Then, embrace the morning ritual. Ditch the snooze button and create a morning routine that nourishes your mind, body, and spirit. This could include meditation, journaling, stretching, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea. Find what works for you and make it a non-negotiable part of your Monday morning.

Don't forget to move your body. Exercise releases endorphins, which boost your mood and energy levels. Whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga class, or a dance session in your living room, find a way to move your body and get your blood flowing. Then, prioritize your tasks. Don't let your to-do list overwhelm you. Identify the most important tasks and tackle them first. Break down large projects into smaller, manageable steps.

Monday doesn't have to be all work and no play. Schedule moments of joy throughout the day. This could be anything from listening to your favorite music to taking a break to connect with a friend. We all have days when things don't go as planned, so practice self-compassion. Don't beat yourself up if you make a mistake or fall behind schedule. Practice self-compassion and remember that you're doing your best.

To end the day well, take a few moments before you go to bed to reflect on the positive aspects of your day. What are you grateful for? What did you accomplish? Focusing on the positive can help you to end the day on a high note and set the stage for a great week.

Don't let Monday dictate your mood or energy. We can choose to make it a day that empowers us, inspires us, and sets us on a path to success.