Better Days Blog

Are you familiar with that nagging feeling that creeps in on Sunday afternoon? That low hum of anxiety about the week ahead? The to-do lists swirling in your head, the forgotten tasks, the sense of being completely unprepared for the Monday morning rush? For years, that was my Sunday reality. I’d spend the day trying to cram in last-minute chores, feeling like I was constantly playing catch-up before the starting gun even fired on Monday.

Then I discovered the magic of the “Sunday Reset.” It’s not about spending your entire Sunday scrubbing floors (though a little tidy-up helps!). Instead, it’s a mindful series of small actions that set the stage for a smoother, more productive, and ultimately, calmer week. Think of it as an act of self-care for your future self. It’s about investing a little time on Sunday so that you can actually enjoy your evenings during the week and feel more in control.

Ready to ditch the Sunday Scaries and embrace a week of calm? Here’s my simple 5-step Sunday Reset routine that has become my weekly game-changer:

Step 1: Reset Your Space (A Clear Space for a Clear Mind)

You know that feeling when your house is a disaster? It can make your mind feel just as cluttered. That’s why I always start with a quick tidy-up.

The 15-Minute Blitz: Set a timer and do a quick sweep of the main living areas. Put away that pile of mail, fold the throw blankets, clear the coffee table. My personal focus is always the kitchen bench – a clear bench equals a clearer head in my book!

The One Load Rule: I make sure to put on one crucial load of laundry. This might be my work clothes, workout gear, kids school clothes or just a load of towels. Knowing that one essential laundry task is done makes a surprising difference on Monday morning.

Empty the Bins: It’s such a small thing, but waking up to empty bins on Monday just feels… good.

Step 2: Reset Your Mind (Plan for Success)

Now that your physical space is a little calmer, it’s time to tackle the mental clutter.

The Brain Dump: Grab a notebook (or your favorite notes app) and just write down everything that’s floating around in your head about the upcoming week. To-dos, appointments, even worries. Getting it all out on paper (or screen) is incredibly freeing.

Schedule Your “Big Rocks”: Look at your week ahead. What are the absolute must-dos? The appointments you can’t miss? Block out time for those first. Then, identify your top 3 priorities for the week – those tasks that will make the biggest impact. Schedule time in your calendar to work on them. I personally love using a simple paper planner so I can see my week at a glance.

Step 3: Simple Meal Planning (Say Goodbye to Weeknight Dinner Stress)

This doesn’t have to be complicated. I’m not talking about prepping every single meal.

Plan a Few Key Meals: Think about 2-3 dinners you’d like to make during the week. This helps avoid the frantic “what’s for dinner?” debate at 5 pm on a Tuesday.

A Quick Grocery List: Based on your meal ideas (and any staples you’re running low on), jot down a quick grocery list. This saves you time and impulse buys during your weekly shop. I even use online shopping and delivery now to avoid the chaos of having our 5- and 7-year-old daughters in the shops!

Step 4: Prepare for an Easy Monday (Little Things Make a Big Difference)

This step is all about making Monday morning as seamless as possible.

Pick Tomorrow’s Outfit: Lay out what you’re going to wear on Monday, from your shoes to your accessories. It sounds trivial, but it eliminates one decision from a potentially rushed morning.

Pack Your Bag(s): Get your work bag, gym bag, or kids’ school bags packed and ready by the door. Knowing everything is organized and in its place is a huge weight off your mind.

Step 5: The Wind-Down (Recharge and Relax)

This is arguably the most important part of the Sunday Reset. It’s about transitioning from the busy-ness of the weekend to a state of calm before the new week begins.

Create Your Relaxing Ritual: This will look different for everyone. For me, it’s usually a hot shower followed by reading a physical book (no screens!). Sometimes I’ll do some gentle stretching. The key is to do something that helps you truly switch off and relax. Aim for at least 30 minutes of tech-free time before bed.

Your Week, Your Way

The beauty of the Sunday Reset is that it’s adaptable. You don’t have to do every single step, every single week. Start by incorporating one or two things that resonate with you and see how it changes your week. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress towards a more organized and peaceful week.

What about you? Do you have any Sunday rituals that help you prepare for the week ahead? Share your best tips in the comments below – I’d love to hear them!