12 Things You Should Do Every Sunday to Guarantee a Productive Week
Getting back into the swing of things after the weekend sometimes seems daunting. Shoes are everywhere, clutter is strewn around and there's laundry to do. But with a little planning, you can learn how to do a Sunday reset to seamlessly resume your weekday routine. In fact, beyond organizing tips and cleaning hacks, a Sunday reset is probably the secret weapon of the most organized people you know.
A Sunday reset is a time to set yourself up for a successful week. It doesn’t have to involve a complicated system or feel like one more chore. “By viewing a reset as a nurturing practice, rather than a task, you’ll find it becoming a cherished part of your week,” says Rachel Rosenthal, organizing expert and owner of the professional organizing firm, Rachel and Company. It helps to incorporate self-care in your reset: Try lighting a candle or playing music while you do it.
Looking ahead to handle things like food prep, bills and scheduling also reduces stress and sets you up for the unexpected. “Life is unpredictable, from the kids missing the bus to your family getting hit with the flu,” says Ann Lightfoot, cofounder Done & Done Home. A good Sunday reset will help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle the week, enhancing your focus and giving you a sense of control. Here’s how to start.
Update the Family Calendar
Whether it’s digital or pen and paper, make sure you and all of your family members are on the same page regarding upcoming events, doctor’s appointments, sports practice, music lessons or other family commitments — such as who’s picking up which kid and when, says Lightfoot.
Take Stock of Household Tasks
Create a to-do list and make sure bills are paid. Note any small household maintenance that needs to be done, such as changing air filters, so you aren’t dealing with bigger issues later, advises Rosenthal.
Spot Clean Key Areas
Set a timer for 15 to 30 minutes to tackle high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen and living room, says Rosenthal. Have everyone help tidy up, including tasks such as putting fresh towels in bathrooms, taking out the trash, vacuuming and wiping down the stovetop. It doesn’t have to be a whole house cleaning, but you’ll feel better if the main living spaces are neat.
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List Meal Ideas
Even if it’s not for every single night, plan a few meals and make a grocery list. Note what you’re low on so you don’t run out of staples like milk or bread midweek. Toss anything expired and move food that needs to be eaten to the front of the fridge, says Lightfoot. Ditto for the pantry.
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Maintain a "Launch Pad"
This is a spot near the front door for keeping essential items such as handbags, backpacks, hats, gloves and keys. “This makes it much easier to stay organized and avoid last-minute scrambles,” says Rosenthal.
Help Kids Prepare
Go through their backpacks together, tossing unneeded papers and taking care of any forms that need to be turned in. Place backpacks and sports equipment near the launch pad. Wipe out lunch boxes and set them out so they are ready to be packed in the morning, says Lightfoot.
Pick Out Tomorrow's Outfits
Laying out clothes the night before can ease morning stress, says Rosenthal. That way, there's no indecision and no one is hunting for their missing shoes or favorite jeans, which are buried at the bottom of the dirty clothes' basket. Plan out a few days, if you’re feeling especially motivated.
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Get Your Car Ready
Why fret about having to stop for gas on the way to work or when it’s pouring rain? Fill up your car as part of your Sunday reset to have one less thing to worry about during the week, says Lightfoot. While you’re at it, run the cars through the car wash, too, to get rid of the week’s grime, and toss any trash that’s accumulated inside.
Digitally Declutter
Take a few minutes to clear out old emails and texts (no, you probably don’t need to save the last 75 texts from your kids). Set reminders on your phone for the week as needed, says Rosenthal.
RELATED: 12 Things You Should Get Rid of Right Away, According to Pro Organizers
Treat Yourself to Self-Care
Take some time to be kind to you. “Whatever helps you get ready for the new week, such as a walk, a bubble bath, meditation or vegging out to your new favorite show are all great ways to reset,” says Lightfoot. Don't skip this one!
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Declutter One Small Space
Choose one area to declutter each Sunday, even if it’s just for 10 minutes. “Small efforts can lead to significant improvements over time,” says Rosenthal. So, go ahead, and empty out the kitchen junk drawer, toss expired spices or re-organize your socks. It’s amazing how energized you’ll feel when you complete one small decluttering task.
RELATED: How to Declutter Without Getting Overwhelmed
Make Time for Fun
It's helpful to block out specific slots for work and errands to manage your time effectively during the week, says Rosenthal. But don't forget about fun! Plan an enjoyable activity to look forward to, whether it’s Friday pizza takeout or a movie night. Having something fun on the calendar to anticipate is a great way to unwind after a long week.
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