The Art of the Sunday Reset
Sundays have always been my favourite day, the only day when it feels acceptable to do absolutely nothing or move at the sort of glacial pace that would thrill Miranda Priestley.
I’m fortunate to no longer work in retail, which means I have been able to set some boundaries about what I do on Sundays. I try not to have anything work-related planned, and if I am doing some form of work, I make sure to get it done in the morning so that my afternoons and evenings are free. Now, I’d like to think I have my Sundays down to an art and none of what I’m about to say is novel or groundbreaking, but these things are what work for me.
First things first: a good breakfast. Sundays are usually the only day I’m not rushing off in the morning and forced to have some sort of breakfast on the go. So, taking the time to make a proper breakfast feels like such a treat, even if it’s just ten minutes for some scrambled eggs and a latte. This slow start helps me ease into the day and really sets the pace for the rest of the day.
Another essential Sunday activity is a big fat walk; not too early to avoid the accidental encounter with the park runners, and this isn’t a brisk, get-your-heart-rate-up type of walk, but rather the kind you do when you’re on holiday, the first day in a new city getting your bearings and trying to find food. Even better if you have a walking buddy, but it’s just as nice on your own with just a playlist or podcast.
Research suggests that planning and goal setting significantly increase the likelihood of achieving desired outcomes. Studies in cognitive psychology have shown that breaking tasks down into smaller, manageable steps makes them feel more achievable and reduces the tendency to procrastinate. I use Sundays to plan my week, I have so many things to balance that I simply would not survive without some sort of structure or plan. I review my calendar (I’m at that age where if it’s not in the calendar, it just does not exist to me), I list out any key tasks I’d like to get done during the week. This in theory, reduces stress later on in the week as I already have an idea of how my week is going to go…the list usually grows as the week goes on but that’s a Wednesday problem not a Sunday problem.
Spending time with loved ones is also a good use of your Sunday and it can help to reduce stress, increase happiness, and even improve overall health – how many times have you been feeling a bit low and feel instantly lifted after spending time with friends? Human connection is essential for our well-being, and Sundays are that perfect opportunity to meet up with friends, even if it’s just a quick catch-up FaceTime, or an impromptu coffee date.
One of the most important aspects of a perfect Sunday imo is making time for uninterrupted leisure. For me, that’s anything from reading a book, watching a film, going to the gym or simply lying on the sofa doing absolutely nothing! I try to spend time intentionally doing something that I want to do and not feeling guilty about doing it, in all honesty this is probably the hardest one to stick to – there’s always something that needs ddoing, something to have to worry about (Hello Sunday Scaries!) but I’m trying to be more graceful and allow myself the chance to actually reset before the week, cause burnout isn’t cute.
Not everyone’s Sunday will look the same, but there are a few things that can help set you up for the week ahead:
Incorporate movement: It doesn’t have to be anything crazy or over the top, but getting outside and moving your body can make a big difference to your mood.
Prepare for the week: Even a small amount of planning can give you a sense of control over your schedule, whether prepping your meals for the week or just a list of things you’d like to do.
Make time for joy: Whether it’s reading, cooking, or just watching TV, do at least one thing that makes you happy.
Decide what matters most to you on a Sunday, whether it’s rest, productivity, or socialising and try to make time for that.
