When the weekend finally arrives, sometimes we just want to melt into the couch.
Turn on the TV.
Binge watch something.
For some of us, the weekend may feel too full of commitments to veg out.
And, during some life stages it definitely is.
However, we all have at least a few minutes at some point to help our future weekday selves.
Over the years, I’ve come up with a lot of weekend activities to make the week easier.
I feel they let me go into the week on offense instead of constantly playing defense.
Below are a lot of ideas I’ve tried.
Pick some that connect with you and give them a try.
Reflect and Plan
- Review the calendar: Check appointments, meetings, deadlines, and events for the week.
- Set goals: Identify 2-3 priorities or outcomes you want to achieve.
- Create a to-do list: Spread the activities across the calendar for the week.
- Reflect on the past week: Identify wins and lessons learned.
Organize and Prepare
- Clean and declutter: Tidy your space to create a calm environment.
- Plan meals: Decide on meals for the week.
- Consider work outfits: Lay out clothes or finalize wardrobe choices.
- Sort your inbox: Clean up emails to reduce Monday overwhelm.
Focus on Wellness
- Exercise: Go for a walk, do yoga, or hit the gym.
- Grocery shop: Stock up on healthy, energizing foods that fit the meal plan you made.
- Meal prep: Cook and store items for your meal plan that can be done ahead.
- Sleep: Make sure you get the needed sleep to have the energy you need.
Reset Mentally
- Journal: Write down thoughts, affirmations, or gratitude.
- Meditate: Spend 5-10 minutes clearing your mind.
- Read: Pick up an inspiring, educational, or juicy fiction book.
- Plan self-care: Schedule time for relaxation, hobbies, or socializing.
Connect and Reconnect
- Call loved ones: Catch up with family or friends.
- Coordinate with a partner: Align schedules or plans for the week.
- Network: Send a thoughtful email or message to someone in your professional network.
Focus on Finances
- Review your budget: Track spending and plan for upcoming expenses.
- Pay bills: Ensure any due payments are scheduled or completed.
Energize Your Environment
- Refresh your desk: If you work at home, organize work supplies and clear clutter.
- Set out reminders: Write a motivating note or place a vision board in sight.
Recharge and Relax
- Plan downtime: Block off time for yourself during the week.
- Take a bath: Reset your body and mind with a soothing soak.
- Unplug: Plan some stretches to take a break from screens to recharge.
Plan for Personal Growth
- Schedule learning: Set aside time for an online course or podcast.
- Review personal goals: Check progress on any personal development plans.
Create Systems
- Automate tasks: Set reminders, automate bill payments, and find other solutions.
- Create a Monday plan: Prioritize your tasks to hit the ground running.
My Story
These days, I spread a number of these things across the weekend.
Friday afternoons/evening typically have me cleaning out email, tidying my workspace, and reflecting on the week past.
Saturday usually includes meal planning, list creation, and grocery shopping.
I’ll also tidy up the house and do some home projects.
Sunday focuses on the budget & bills, laundry, reviewing the calendar for the week, and scheduling to-dos across the week.
Throughout the weekend, I’m doing things to recharge myself.
Including taking walks, reading, watching movies, and/or hanging out with family and friends.
Your Turn
What do you do on the weekend to make the week easier?
Do any items on the list above connect with you?
What one item would you like to try next week?