The End of the Weekend: What Can You Count On Regarding Mondays?

Monday. It's the day after Sunday and before Tuesday. But for many, it's also a day that marks the end of a weekend, leading to feelings of dread rather than excitement. This day has been especially challenging for some of us, as the past year has blurred the lines between weekdays and weekends. Amidst the chaos, one thing remains consistent: the routine of waking up on a Monday morning. Let's explore what we can count on regarding Mondays, and how to approach this day with a fresh perspective.

The Obvious Facts About Mondays

Let's start with the obvious. Every Monday, the sun rises to signal the new week. Sure, it's just one more day in a seemingly endless cycle of work and rest. However, amidst the monotony, there are moments of clarity and renewed focus. In the lockdown period, it might have felt like a blur, but the consistency of Mondays brought its own brand of routine. Each new day presented an opportunity to start afresh, with a 1/7 chance of crafting a better habit. Yes, it can be that inspiring.

Garfield and His Mondays

One can only imagine how Garfield, the feline philosopher, feels on Mondays. Unlike humans, he doesn't suffer from the same existential dread of starting a new week. For Garfield, the end of the weekend is a distraction from an endless line of grumpy owners who simply don't understand his true purpose. Only Thursdays are noteworthy for Garfield, as that's when the food delivery arrives, signaling a break from the mundane.

The Impact of a Varying Roster on Mondays

For those of us who don't work Monday to Friday, like myself, the monotony of Mondays is a bit of a non-issue. I've been blessed (or cursed, depending on your perspective) with a flexible roster, meaning that I can't really tell the difference between weekdays. They all end in 'y', and none is more special than another when it comes to my free time.

A varied work schedule has allowed me to appreciate the flexibility and freedom it brings. Instead of dreading the start of the week, I celebrate the fluidity and adaptability of each day. There's no "perfect" Monday to look forward to, only an opportunity to make the most of whatever day it happens to be.

Embracing the Routine Despite the Resistance

While Mondays can be challenging, especially for those who have to start their work week on this day, it's important to embrace the routine. Like the grocer whom I used to buy my coffee from during the London lockdown, Monday mornings still bring a sense of structure. Despite the chaos of the past year, the sun still rises, and people still wake up.

The consistency of the sunrise, the habit of grabbing a morning coffee, and the familiar faces we encounter each day are all part of the routine. These small, repeated actions form the foundation of our lives, giving us something to look forward to even on the darkest of Mondays.

Better Habits Start on Monday

If you're looking to start something new, Monday is the perfect day to make a change. It's a clean slate, a chance to set yourself up for success. From planning your week ahead to embracing new habits, a Monday can be the catalyst you need to make progress. Whether it's hitting the gym for the first time or starting a new project, there's something powerful about starting fresh on a new week.

Enjoying the Routine on Days When Weekdays Are Blurred

For those whose work schedules blur the lines between weekdays, finding joy in the routine can be a welcome distraction. A varied roster offers its own set of challenges and rewards. The challenge lies in embracing the flexibility and seeing each day for its unique opportunities. Instead of dreading the start of the week, focus on the small victories that come with each day's structure.

Moments like hitting the gym, meeting a friend for brunch, or simply enjoying a lazy morning can make a Monday feel like a grand adventure. Celebrate the small things that bring joy to your routine, and let them guide you through even the most challenging Mondays.

Final Thought

Mondays are just another day, part of a larger tapestry of weeks and months. They represent opportunities, challenges, and the chance to create new habits. Whether you work a traditional Monday-to-Friday schedule or have a more flexible roster, the key is to find your routines and celebrations. Embrace the routine on days when weekdays are blurred, and remember that each new day is an opportunity to start anew.