HOW TO: START THE WEEK RIGHT – THE SUNDAY RESET
The weekend usually flies by in a blur of social gatherings, DIY projects, and catching up on sleep. Then, before you know it, it’s Sunday evening, and that familiar dread of the looming Monday creeps in. But what if there was a way to banish the Sunday scaries and actually look forward to a productive week? Enter the concept of the Sunday Reset.
This isn’t just about squeezing in a last-minute dash of laundry. The Sunday Reset is a strategic approach to setting yourself up for success. It’s about carving out some time on Sunday to tackle tasks that can free up your mental energy during the week, allowing you to be calmer and more focused.
Below, home and cleaning expert Carol Harding at HomeAdviceGuide.com goes over everything you need to know about the Sunday reset, giving you the tools and skills needed to start your week right. Take a look at Carol’s tips below.
Declutter Like a Pro: From Chaos to Calm
We all know the feeling: tripping over shoes by the door, wrestling with overflowing bins, and battling that ever-growing pile of newspapers on the coffee table. Dedicate an hour to do a ruthless declutter.
- Tackle the Toys: If you have little ones, dedicate a specific area for their toys. Place stuffed animals together in a decorative basket, gather building blocks in a storage bin, and put away stray crayons before they become permanent residents of the sofa.
- Conquer the Countertops: Kitchen counters are prime real estate for clutter. Put away appliances that live on the counter permanently, like toasters or coffee machines. Clear away mail, bills, and loose change – designate a specific drawer or tray for them.
- Tame the Terrors of the Table: The dining table often becomes a dumping ground for miscellaneous items. Clear away any lingering breakfast plates or homework projects. Give the surface a quick wipe-down – a clean table sets the stage for a mindful and relaxing meal later in the week.
- Don’t Forget the Fridge: Let’s be honest, the fridge can become a forgotten land. Here’s where a little Sunday reset magic goes a long way. Dispose of expired items, clean up any spills, and organise your groceries. Group similar items together (fruits and vegetables in the drawers, condiments on a designated shelf). A clean and organised fridge not only makes it easier to find what you need but also helps prevent food spoilage.
Become a Cleaning Champion: Prep for a Sparkling Week
While decluttering creates a clean slate, a little proactive cleaning on Sunday goes a long way in ensuring your home stays sparkling throughout the week. Here are some tips to turn you into a Sunday Reset cleaning champion:
- The Speedy Surface Sweep: Dust accumulates like nobody’s business. Grab a microfiber cloth and quickly dust shelves, furniture, and electronics. Don’t forget to tackle those pesky cobwebs lurking in corners – a quick job on a Sunday saves a much bigger one later.
- The Mighty Mop Mission: Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors. This not only removes dust and dirt, but also helps prevent allergens from circulating in the air. Bonus tip: if you have pets, use a pet-hair specific vacuum attachment on furniture to remove fur before it becomes deeply embedded.
- The Sparkling Bathroom Blitz: Bathrooms are high-traffic areas that require regular cleaning. Disinfect surfaces like countertops, toilet seats, and sinks. Give the shower or bathtub a quick scrub – a clean bathroom not only looks gorgeous but also promotes good hygiene.
- The Kitchen Conquest: Wipe down countertops, stovetops, and backsplashes. Empty and clean the crumb tray in your toaster. A quick wipe-down of the microwave keeps food splatters at bay. By doing a light clean on Sunday, you’ll minimise the need for a deep clean later in the week.
Become a Meal-Prep Maestro
Let’s be honest, the last thing you want to do after a long day is wrestle with a recipe book. Planning and prepping your meals for the week ahead is a lifesaver. Batch cook healthy dishes, portion them out in containers – dinner is sorted, and your kitchen stays delightfully unchaotic.
Become a List Master
While endless to-do lists can sometimes feel overwhelming, here’s where they become your Sunday Reset ally. Grab a notebook or use a handy app to jot down your to-do list for the week. Include work deadlines, appointments, and even social plans. Seeing it all laid out helps you feel organised and in control.
Self-Care Sanctuary: Because You Deserve It!
The Sunday Reset isn’t all about productivity. Take time for activities that replenish your soul – after all, a well-rested you is a happy you (and a happy you means a cleaner home!).
- Disconnect to Reconnect: Give yourself a digital detox. Switch off from social media and emails for a few hours. This mental break will do wonders for your focus and well-being.
- Pamper Yourself: Draw a relaxing bath, indulge in a face mask, or get lost in a good book. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for a balanced week. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can tackle when you’re feeling energised.
- Get Moving: Exercise is a well-known mood booster. Go for a brisk walk, take a yoga class, or simply stretch it out in the living room. Feeling energised makes cleaning that much easier – and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love the feeling of a post-workout endorphin rush?
Setting Yourself Up for Sleep Success
A good night’s sleep is crucial for a productive week, for both you and for keeping those cleaning sessions efficient. Wind down earlier on Sunday. Dim the lights, avoid screens for an hour before bed, and create a calming bedtime routine. A well-rested you are a cleaning champion in the making!
The Beauty of Personalisation: Your Unique Sunday Reset
The beauty of the Sunday Reset is its flexibility. Here are some ways to tailor it to your specific needs and preferences:
- The Early Bird: Are you a morning person? Seize the day and get your reset done before lunch. This frees up your afternoon for relaxing activities or errands.
- The Night Owl: Do evenings suit you better? Light some candles, put on some calming music, and turn your Sunday Reset into a relaxing pre-bed ritual.
- The Social Butterfly: Does spending time with loved ones recharge you? Schedule a cleaning session with a friend or family member. Turn it into a fun activity with upbeat music and shared snacks.
- The Minimalist: Do you crave a clutter-free environment? Focus your reset on decluttering and light cleaning. Skip the meal prepping if take-out is your jam.
- The Health Nut: Is prioritising your well-being key? Include a yoga session or a brisk walk in your reset routine. Remember, a healthy body leads to a clear mind, and a clear mind can tackle any cleaning challenge.
Find what works for you, and soon you’ll be looking forward to Sundays – not dreading them. After all, a cleaner, calmer you makes for a cleaner, happier home – and that’s a win-win for everyone.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! The Sunday Reset: your secret weapon against Monday morning blues. By incorporating decluttering, strategic cleaning, self-care, and a touch of personalisation, you can transform your Sundays into springboards for a productive and stress-free week. Remember, a cleaner home isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a calm and organised space that fuels your well-being. So, put on your favourite music, grab a cup of tea, and get ready to conquer your Sunday Reset. You’ll definitely thank yourself for it!
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