Monday Success!

by Kris Pitcher

Transitioning from the weekend to Monday morning can be rough. Real rough. I always feel like I'm just getting relaxed when it's time to rush off for another work week. And if you're not prepared it's hard to set yourself up for success.

We usually have good intentions of being organized and then the weekend kind of slips away. We don't exactly get things done, and before you know it our Sunday night is gone. A few things can help you have a smooth Monday and set you up for a great week. Even this time of year when time seems to be really short.

Food prep is number one at our house. If we're not fed, no one's happy. Making sure there is enough (and different) protein thawed out ahead of time makes cooking easy on a Sunday afternoon.

We fire up the grill and start the production line. At the same time the rice steamer is going and the kitchen is being cleaned and organized. This is a great time to pre-package veggies, nuts, etc. for both you and the kids.

But that's not all you're doing. You've got your laundry going so come Monday morning you are set. Sounds simple but multi-tasking isn't every one's forte. While you're putting clothes away, pack your gym bag. And I always set out my morning cardio clothes as well.

Put a hanger over the bathroom door for your Monday wardrobe. No guessing, deciding, or coordinating come early AM. Select your outfit the night before and all you have to do is dry off and put it on.

Make sure your car is gassed up each week at the end of the week. It will be all ready for you come Monday. Or, if you're running around all weekend, make a stop to fill up. You don't want to have to make a stop on your way to work.

As your Sunday comes to a close, put out your breakfast dishes, your shake mixings...what ever is going to make your morning run smoothly. Make sure your work bag is packed, your phone is charged etc. Doing these things ahead really only takes a matter of a few minutes once you've got your systems down.

Planning ahead makes for Monday success. Setting yourself up for a great week will make it easier to perform well at work, make your exercise and eating a priority and it will actually give you more time to spend with your family. Get in the habit of making things easy on yourself. Happy Monday & a more organized Tuesday!