How do you feel on a Monday morning? If you’ve got a long to-do list to get through or you’ve had a stressful start to the day, it can be a struggle to find the motivation to get going. Check out these ideas for helping you start your week strong.
Have a brain dump
If you’ve got lots of things on your mind, try writing them down. It may be that something is worrying you or you have a million and one things you need to do, so writing it all down will help you declutter your mind and thoughts, and focus on the things you need to do.
“Mondays are the start of the work week which offer new beginnings 52 times a year!“ David Dweck
Reduce daily distractions
Do you find you easily get distracted by your phone? A ‘quick check’ of social media or your emails can be the perfect distraction when you’re lacking motivation, but it can quickly add up over the course of the day. Remove the temptation by turning off your notifications on your phone or limit yourself to checking your emails three or four times a day.
Listen to motivational music
We all know that feeling when your favourite song comes on; it can quickly transform your mood! Music has a host of great benefits and it’s thought that light pop music in particular can put you in a motivating mood. So if you’re struggling to get started, stick your favourite song on and it could be the lift you need to get your week started.
“Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again.” Richard Branson
Get outside
It’s a tip we come back to again and again, but a break from your desk can do so much for your mental and physical health. Taking a step outside, going for a run or just having a cuppa in your garden can help refresh your body and mind, and find your focus.
Manage your tasks
A long to-do list can feel very overwhelming first thing on a Monday morning, so try breaking bigger tasks into smaller steps so it feels more manageable. We offered some alternative ideas to the traditional epic to-do list in last week’s blog.
Dress for success
Whether you’re working from home or going into the office, what you wear has an impact on how you feel. If you find you wear joggers when working from home, try wearing something that makes you feel good. Dressing for the occasion affects your mood, attitude and confidence and can help improve productivity and your performance in tasks.
“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.” Dalai Lama
Practice mindfulness
Give yourself a positive start to the day by thinking about the things that you're grateful for. This allows you to notice your blessings and create balance in your life, which can be really beneficial when you’re suffering from anxiety or stress. Some people find repeating affirmations each day helps them feel positive and inspired.
Plan Monday on Friday
End your week by planning the start of the next. That way, when Monday comes around, you can get started straight away rather than wasting your time planning your tasks. Try to be kind to yourself and, if possible, don't book meetings on a Monday, at least not first thing in the morning anyway!
Make Monday fun
Mondays don’t have to be bleak. Give yourself something to look forward to - whether it’s a nice meal, coffee with friends or simply having a bath and watching your favourite movie at the end of the day, it can be the motivation you need to get through your work.
“When you arise in the morning think of what a privilege it is to be alive, to think, to enjoy, to love…” Marcus Aurelius
The Arts News
The full cast for Oklahoma! has been announced. The musical, which will appear at the Young Vic from 26th April to 25th June, will be led by Anoushka Lucas (as Laurey Williams) and Arthur Darvill (as Curly McLain). Check out the full cast here.
Kinky Boots will have its first UK revival later this year. The multi-award-winning musical will open at the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich from 1st to 24th September and Queen's Theatre Hornchurch from 28th September to 22th October. Cast to be revealed.
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