As seen on MindBodyGreen

I’m old enough to remember when most business were closed on Sundays. Irrespective of religious preferences, it was a day of rest. Growing up, Sunday was the day for dinner at Grandma’s. Though my father was a very successful businessman, I have no memories of him checking into the office on Sunday.

These days, aside from Sunday morning mass, Sunday seems to blend into the other days of the week. By practicing a few simple habits, I find that Sunday can be a day to recharge and create a smooth transition into the week.

Try these 6 simple tips and ease into your week calm, centered and ready for action:

1. Take a digital day off.

Sunday is a great day to unplug, especially if you’re extremely connected during the week. Emails, blogs, and Facebook will all be there Monday morning. I’m surprised at how challenging I find this, but the more I stick with it, the more refreshed I am and ready to dive in on Monday.

2. Indulge in some self care.

Give yourself a manicure, curl up with a steaming cup of tea and a good book, or bask in whatever makes you feel pampered and relaxed. I like to sink into a hot bath on Sunday nights, ideally with fluffy bubbles and candlelight.

3. Identify your priorities.

I find this essential so that the week does not get away from me. I set my three main priorities for the week, as well as key daily goals. Emergencies will arise and things won’t go as planned, but I’ll be better prepared to maintain focus and not be derailed when I am clear on what the most important tasks for the week are.

4. Compare schedules.

With everyone’s crazy schedules, it’s helpful to do a quick recap of who’s going where in the coming week and who will be home for dinner. My husband might be motivated to cook dinner on that one night I’m out at a networking event, and that wouldn’t be good!

5. Prep for meals.

And speaking of meals, Sunday is the perfect time for meal prep. I’m not suggesting you have to know (and prepare) exactly what you’ll serve each night, but advance preparation can make for a less stressful week. I like to cook at least one or two dishes over the weekend even if I don’t know which day we’ll eat them. This way if a crisis arises and you need to stay late at the office, you know there’s a home cooked meal waiting and you don’t have to stop for take out. Soups, stews, chili, or a vegetarian lasagna can be tasty, healthy options that will last for several days.

6. Plan something fun.

Whether it’s lunch with a friend or a Saturday night movie it’s always exciting to have something to look forward to. It’s also one of the characteristics of happy people according to Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, who says “Having something to look forward to makes you “feel good” and may also give an “atmosphere of growth” to your life, because the future seems bright.”

What better way to start your week!

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