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Does anyone else feel like they need a hard reset at the end of every week?
I grew up in a constant state of haste and sometimes that shows up in my adult life. Here’s how it goes: I create a list of tasks that need to be done by the end of the week. After a task is completed, I get to check it off, but then I remember how that task had a sub-task, and that sub-task interferes with my meeting on Wednesday. And then I’m reminded that on Wednesday, I booked my appointment to take the dog to the groomer, so I won’t have enough time to finish the first task, and so on and so forth.
Before I know it, the week is over, I have a longer list of things to do, and the Sunday Scaries are peeking out from the shadows to welcome me to another new week.
I’ve done a good job at unlearning certain habits that no longer serve me, but there are moments when I find myself in a place of “stuck.”
It’s like walking through a revolving door, just spinning and spinning my way through without any chance to step out. And although there is no magic button to stop the revolving doors of everyday life, there are a few tricks to manage the overwhelm and find your way through to the other side.
Here are some ideas to help you embark on a weekly reset to set yourself up for success:
1. Create a Calm Corner
Your environment can affect your thoughts and although some of us might not have the opportunity to change environments, we can do small things to find a corner of calm and create a clutter-free environment where our thoughts can flow effortlessly.
By dedicating some time each week to decluttering your environment, you’ll experience the calming effects of an organized space. If the task seems daunting, break it down into smaller, manageable chunks throughout the week. This way, you can conquer the clutter without feeling overwhelmed. Once that nook, room, or corner of your house is clean, then stay consistent with the upkeep of having that space stay decluttered.
I use a whiteboard to keep all of my chores and home tasks organized. It helps me visualize what needs to be done for the day. I prioritize the more time-consuming tasks on less busy days and assign smaller, easier tasks on those days when I have a packed work schedule.
Remember, a clear workspace can influence a clear mind to focus and get things done. You deserve a clutter-free environment that gives you the space to slow down and make clutter one less thing to worry about.
2. Get ahead with a planner
Life has a knack for throwing unexpected surprises our way. While we can’t predict the future, we can certainly plan for it! Embrace the power of a planner to anticipate and allocate time for unforeseen tasks. Jot down your regular schedule for the week, and carve out dedicated slots to tackle miscellaneous items that may arise. By proactively planning, you’ll feel more in control and less like you’re constantly juggling multiple demands. If something comes up for the week, write that on a sticky note and then assess where you can place it in your planner that makes the most sense.
If it feels overwhelming at first, I want you to know that is completely normal. Organization and planning are skills that take some time to learn, but using the planner as a tool to stay organized will help you get farther and more in control of your time.
If you’re looking for a good recommendation, I currently use a digital planner from Passion Planner. Seeing how each day in the planner was divided by every half hour overwhelmed me at first, so I divided each day by morning, afternoon, and night. This helped me see how I was divvying up my tasks throughout the day and assessing where I can reorganize a daily plan that works best for me.
I’ve also heard many great things about the digital Flourish Planner and want to try that next year. Let me know in the comments if you want a review of both.
If you are more into physical planners, Passion Planner also has a great selection as well. Share your favorites below.
3. Unplug and unwind
In today’s digital age, distractions seem to be everywhere, especially on our phones. Try to break free from the constant notifications and social media buzz at least once a week. Social media can be a place for inspiration and community, but when overused, it can also take a toll on our mental well-being. If your social media use is getting in the way of activities or your ability to show up, then consider how you’d like to redefine your relationship with social media.
Create a clear boundary between the tasks you need to prioritize and the time spent on social media.
When I can, I put my phone on focus mode and only allow important contacts and emails to reach me. When I have a break in my day, even if for 10 minutes, I take a moment to consider if I want to spend those 10 minutes scrolling online or if I want to do something else. There isn’t a right or wrong answer to this, it’s more about checking in with yourself and deciding what will help you overall.
Allowing a day or even a few hours disconnected from the virtual world can create space to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. You’ll be amazed at how refreshing and liberating this simple act can be.
Remember, the key to a successful weekly reset lies in finding what works best for you. So go ahead and give these ideas a try and let me know what worked in the comments. With a decluttered space, proactive planning, and moments of digital detox, you’ll create a delightful and rejuvenating weekly routine that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the world!
Til Next Time,
Mary
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