The weekends go by so fast. The sense of excitement and anticipation you felt on Friday afternoon slips away, and by Sunday night, the weight of another Monday morning presses down on you like a ton of bricks. Welcome to the Sunday Night Blues. Okay, maybe it’s not always that bad (let’s hope!), but if you don’t like your job, or you struggle with stress, Sunday nights can be a time of anxiety and dread.
Planning a fun activity on Sunday night can help alleviate some of your anxiety. When you’re busy doing something else, you won’t have time to dwell on your worries. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1. Plan dinner dates.
Sundays are a great opportunity to get together with family and friends. Unlike Friday and Saturday nights, Sunday has an easy-going casual atmosphere. So host a pot-luck. Cook up some pasta. Make tacos. Your dinner party doesn’t have to be a big to-do. Just kick back, share some laughter and relax with the people you love.
2. Watch a movie.
There’s nothing like a great movie to take you away from everyday life. Minimum effort, maximum entertainment! If you are having a hard time picking a movie to watch, swap favorites with friends.
3. Take a bubble bath.
Bubble baths make you feel good all over. Even a long hot shower can do wonders. Try a new body wash for extra zing. Play your favorite music or radio show. If you’re really motivated, light some candles for added ambience.
4. Listen to a podcast.
Podcasts are a great way to get inspired and learn something new. There are so many podcasts out there! Many of them are free. One of my favorites is Kimberly Wilson’s Tranquility du Jour. She has a sweet, BFF vibe and is also an amazing entrepreneur. On her podcasts, she interviews business coaches, authors and other fascinating folks.
5. Clean house.
For those of you who hate cleaning, this tip isn’t for you. But there are some people who secretly love it. They feel great when the kitchen is glistening and the carpets are clean. Reordering their living space is totally therapeutic for them. If you’re one of those people, go at it. Clean away. Feel better.
6. Buy yourself flowers.
Why wait for Valentine’s Day? Buy yourself flowers today. At many grocery stores, flowers are under six dollars. I find that the cheap flowers tend to last longer anyway, and they often look and smell great. It’s fun to treat yourself once in a while, and the sight of fresh blossoms will give you a lift all week long. If you don’t want the extra expense, arrange fruit in a bowl and display it on a counter or table top.
7. Make time for your favorite hobby.
Do you love to go fishing, build model airplanes, knit afghans or bake cupcakes? Set aside a couple of hours on Sunday to do your favorite hobby. Hobbies are great because you do them purely for pleasure . No one is judging you. There’s absolutely no pressure. You can just relax, express your creative side and have fun.
8. Get a change of scenery.
Part of the dread you feel on Sunday nights may have to do with the monotony of life in general. The same old routine can feel claustrophobic after a while. So give yourself a change of scenery. Take a drive into the country or visit a new neighborhood in the city. Go sit by a lake, take a walk on the beach or head up to the mountains. Whether you are people watching or enjoying the outdoors, the change in scenery will help refresh and renew you.
9. Nurture your spiritual side.
Spending time in a community of faith can help you find a sense of belonging and purpose. Singing songs, listening to inspiring talks, and having deep conversations can be revitalizing for many people. If you miss that part of your life or you want to find deeper meaning in your life, Sundays can be the perfect opportunity for you to make a positive change.
10. Call a friend.
When you’re feeling down, the best remedy is often something simple, like a phone call to a trusted friend or family member. You’ll be reminded that you aren’t alone. You have people to support you even when things get messy. Plus, saying your worries out loud can help put them in perspective. They won’t feel like such a big deal. There are solutions. You’ll get through. Everything will be okay.
Take back your Sunday night so you can have an advantage come Monday morning. It isn’t hard to do. We usually have such low expectations for them anyway. Adding one fun activity can make a world of difference. So treat yourself. Do something that makes you smile.