Weekends should recharge you, but some of our favorite ways to unwind actually make Mondays harder.
Here are some habits therapists say you should ditch if you want to start your week feeling focused and energized.
Too much screen time
Binge-watching your favorite show or endlessly scrolling through TikTok feels relaxing, but too much screen time messes with your body’s natural rhythms.
Poor sleep and a foggy brain are common side effects come Monday.
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Try taking intentional breaks by doing something hands-on like cooking, journaling, or stretching.
No movement at all
Lying on the couch all weekend sounds tempting, but skipping movement entirely can leave you feeling more tired and anxious.
Movement supports mental clarity and sleep. Don’t overthink it — a short walk, dancing while cleaning, or five minutes of stretching can work wonders.
Pushing planning aside
Putting off planning only makes Monday more stressful.
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It might feel like you’re "relaxing" by ignoring your calendar, but it backfires when you wake up to chaos.
Keep it simple: jot down one thing you need to remember or prep lunch for Monday in advance.
Messing up your sleep schedule
Sleeping in for hours or staying up super late feels like freedom after a busy week. But your body struggles to reset before Monday.
The result is tiredness, mood swings, and brain fog. Try to wake up around the same time each day, even if you go to bed later than usual.
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Cramming your weekend with chores
Weekends often become extra workdays filled with cleaning, laundry, and errands. You might feel productive but not fulfilled.
Aim to balance your to-dos with downtime and social plans so you head into Monday recharged.
Checking out completely
Shutting yourself off from everyone and everything may feel like the ultimate break, but total isolation can lead to loneliness and irritability.
Make a simple, no-pressure plan like grabbing coffee with a friend — a bit of social time can boost feel-good brain chemicals.
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All-or-nothing mentality
Many people swing between jam-packed weekends or doing absolutely nothing. Neither extreme really helps you recharge.
Instead, find a balance that mixes rest, practical tasks, and connection with others.
No screen breaks
Besides too much screen time, many people forget to create mindful pauses.
Try inserting small habits like taking a walk after a movie or putting your phone away during meals. It helps your mind truly unwind.
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Thinking rest is lazy
We often feel guilty for napping or not finishing every task. But rest isn’t wasted time — it’s an investment in your energy.
Try to see rest and restorative activities as productive, because they actually help you show up better during the week.
Ignoring the Sunday scaries
When you avoid thinking about Monday altogether, you often end up feeling more anxious. A tiny bit of structure can do wonders.
Look at your calendar, set out your clothes, or pack your bag for Monday. Small steps help you feel more grounded.
Artiklen er baseret på informationer fra Real Simple.