It’s Monday, it’s grey, it’s gloomy. Not the best motivation to get out of bed and start the day on a positive note, right?! Today we share the 5 best tips for a productive and happy start of the week.
1. Dont be negative
A good state of mind starts with YOU. So if you get out of bed thinking the world sucks, your job is boring and people are annoying, chances are you’ll exactly experience it that way. Sure, sometimes you just aren’t in the best mood and I’m not pushing you to act fake-happy, but just making the effort of looking at every day situations on a more positive note can really make a difference. Gratitude is also a great way towards more positivity: appreciate that avocado toast and coffee!! You have a roof over your head, food to eat and you’re safe. Everything else is just a process.
2. To-do list
A to-do list might sound terribly grown up and boring (my opinion for a long time), but it does give a good sense of overview. By making a to-do list at the start of the week, you learn a lot about where you have to improve or what you’re trying to procastinate. E.g. if by the end of the week the same tasks are EVERYTIME unticked, you know you have a problem. On the other hand, a ticked off to-do list is also a great reminder that you’re being productive and doing a good job when you get things done.
3. Routine
Ugh, another one of those words that really works on my nerves. But the truth is: some form of routine is good. For you, for your health, for your happiness. If you work an office job, chances are your routine is already dictated for you. But that still doesn’t mean you can’t create your own routine within the routine. Sounds vague? I’m talking about implementing daily or weekly things like a yoga class on Monday night or a 30 minute walk before you go to work. Creating a positive routine with scheduled activities ensures that you’ll actually DO those things that will make you feel happier.
4. Change it up
OK, fair enough. There are periods where you’re basically glued to your desk to finish a job. To keep it fun and to keep yourself focussed, try to change things up as much as possible. In a deadline period for FashionContainer, ‘change it up’ could look like this:
09.00 – 12.00: First part of insanely boring administrative tasks like making up invoices, collecting receipts, saving bank statements and communicating with accountant
12.00 – 14.00: A little creative brainstorm session to wake up the brain!
14.00 – 16.00: Back to administration with a fresh focus
When you change things up regularly, you’ll work more productive and focussed. Rewarding yourself with chocolate works too, just don’t overdo it 😉
5. A good night sleep
Watching a movie, followed by browsing your Instagram feed for another hour and before you know it, it’s midnight and you’re meant to go to sleep. The only problem: you’re so switched on by the zillion impressions your brain just consumed that it’s impossible to fall asleep. Make it a habit to switch off completely at least 1 hour before going to sleep. Try it for one week and notice the difference!
How do you start your week on the most positive and productive note?
