5 Things to do to Prepare for a Smoother Week

If you are anything like me, you remember the days pre-pandemic when everything was go-go-go!!! The last few months have done absolutely nothing for my productivity. But I can truly say that I am more than grateful that it has allowed me to slow down and enjoy the smaller moments that make the biggest memories. Although my life feels like it is slowly getting back to the busy-ness of life, I find myself rushing to get out of the door and to the office Monday morning barely making it to my 8:00am meeting (btw, who calls a meeting at 8am on Mondays anyway?) I’m reminded of the days when I use to prep during the weekend, so the beginning of week was not as stressful. Creating an organized plan can set the tone for the beginning of the week.

I get it, you want your weekends to be filled with kids’ birthday parties and tons of errands, right? Let’s not forget the ever-ending pile of laundry. Weekends don’t have to be filled with a ‘laundry’ list of chores. However, having a list can really help your week go much more smoothly and with less stress. So, let’s get started!

#1 - Check Your Planner

• What is on your schedule for the week?

• Is there anything you need make special accommodations for? (Babysitter, birthday card/gift for a party this weekend, doctor/dentist appointment)

• Create a To-Do list for the week, put it on the refrigerator (or in your phone) and check things off as you go.

• It might be a good idea to double check your email to see if you have anything noteworthy.

Filling in your planner at the beginning of the week puts you in the right mindset to be more intentional of what you are adding to your list so that you are setting yourself up for a productive week. Remember to schedule a little self-care. By scheduling a massage, an exercise class, or coffee with a friend, you are less likely to cancel. Sometimes, when we over plan and overschedule and don’t accomplish everything on our list, we feel as though we have failed but, there just isn’t enough time in the day!

#2 - Grocery Meal Plan

• Create a grocery list for the week based on what your meals and STICK TO IT! Not only will this help your financial budget and time budget but your waist-line budget too!

• Even if you don’t choose to create a list, always have staples in your kitchen where you can create easy meals. One of my favorites: I season a pan of chicken, put it in the fridge and cook over the next couple of days. You can cook the chicken a couple of different ways and mix with a salad, stir-fry veggies, or casserole.

• Have a designated Theme Night in your house. For example, Taco Tuesday, Pizza on Fridays.

Keep in mind this can mean something different for everyone but having a plan will set you up for success!

#3 - Select Outfits for the Week

• Check the weather, think about your planned activities, and set aside your wardrobe for the week. I do this for my three-year-old every Sunday, it makes my mornings so much easier (at least picking out her clothes)

• Put aside 4 (or 5) outfits (for the kids you can label the hangers with the day of the week).

#4 - Don’t forget that “other” stuff-this is the stuff you need to help with everything else.

• Money for an event at the kid’s school?

• Drop by the post office to mail holiday cards?

• Soccer practice or dance lessons after school?

By preparing for these events Sunday and having them set aside, your week will flow much better.

#5 - Don't forget Yourself!

We talked about self-care and that it is so important to set aside time to with yourself. Take some time to do something you enjoy. The rest of the week is going to be full of kids, family, and work so take a bit of time (even it is just 10 minutes, as long as it makes you smile)

Getting in a routine of your Sunday (or Saturday) To-Do List can ease up your week and make the week less stressful. Let’s face it, the week is stressful enough – preparing at the start of the week will make life’s smaller moments sweeter.