I’m here with some Monday tools because I want us to have a week that is equal parts productive and not totally sucky. We’re writing lists, we’re being considerate to ourselves and people around us, and we’re going to tackle the big and the daunting. Essentially, I want us not to pull our hair out.
We need a team high-five. Let’s fight the good fight!
โข I write a daily to-do list but on Mondays it’s nice to write a more broad list in addition to the daily deal. Write a list of goals for the week. This could include larger projects you have on your plate, a home task (why is folding laundry so so so hard!? ), or a self-care treats. (How about a face mask whiiiiile folding laundry? Boom boom pow.)
โข WATER! Drink more water, but make it interesting! Coconut water powder, add cucumber, add fresh basil, add a splash of aloe vera juice (hardcore).
โข Have fun making dinner one night. Yea… even if it’s just for you. How about The Best Weeknight Chicken Dinner? There’s buttery rice and peas involved, plus leftovers for lunch.
โข Try something fresh. Even if it’s Facebook Live and even though that seems terrifying.
โข Do the thing you don’t want to do. For me that means calling my health insurance company. I’m SO GOOD at NOT doing this. I need to change my game and really… just do it. Do the daunting things first thing and relish in the glory of crossing it off the list.
โข In conflict, think of the other perspective. See someone’s frustration as where they might need support and what you can offer. And then, if you do this successfully… eat an ice cream sandwich because that business is hard sometimes.
โข Call someone you love. On the phone. With your voice. It’s all about nurturing relationships which, apparently, don’t nurture themselves.
โข Give someone a pep talk. My maj Tracy has gotten me on the pep talk bandwagon this week. It feels good to encourage people because it’s basically like encouraging yourself at the same time. Positivity breeds.
โข Think ahead for yourself. This post , The Beauty Products I Always Run Out Of and Rebuy, got me thinking about the things I need to restock just so my future self can be less frazzled before running out the door to something or other.
โข Be in love with your life, every bit, even Mondays. This can be challenging too. It’s all about perspective and ice cream sandwich rewards.
Let’s go get it!
xo Joy
53 Responses
I often come here on a Monday for an inspiring Monday-based post because you’re SO good at them! Thanks :-)
I took your Monday challenge by the horns and conquered my fear of piping โฆ.thanks to you. I ordered the Layered cookbook you recommended and baked her Riesling rhubarb crisp cake. I made fire! It turned out. I give you a shout-out in my blog. Thanks for the courage and the cookbook recommendation!
https://naramatablendblog.wordpress.com/2016/05/10/love-is-like-a-good-cake-you-never-know-when-its-coming-but-youd-better-eat-it-when-it-does-joybell-c/
wonderful blog. I like your post Thanks for sharing :)
This was a great post and perfect for a Monday, when I think we all need a pep talk. I completely agree with being considerate to ourselves and those around us. Love your words of encouragement!
Late to the Monday pep talk — but will try it next week! You’re a great writer who tells it like it is, ice cream sandwich and all. Thanks!
What a great and helpful post to get us all motivated. A needed addition to my week!
Oh I love this. Yes! It’s so good to start off the working week with positive good vibes. That chicken looks like the perfect thing to make one day during this rainy/cloudy week too.
Thanks Joy for such an amazing list of reminders! I’m a big fan of coconut water as it replenishes the electrolytes but never heard of coconut water powder. How does it compare to actual coconut water?
Love this post!! I enjoyed the read!
Xoxo,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
JOY, love love LOVE your blog posts! The Sunday posts keep me informed and, yes is true, add a “cool factor” to my world because: you/Joy = way more hip/in-the-know than me! And, this post? THIS is exactly how I need to start my weeks. I especially like your suggestions to write down weekly goals, give pep talks and try to see others’ perspectives. Thank you for being super-awesome!!
i’m so glad you’re here!
You give the best advice Joy. I always look forward to reading what you have to say, especially on Let it be Sunday :) love your positive outlook :)
Inspiring! And I made the chicken for supper last night. My family was in heaven! My 13 year old wanted a portion saved so she could have it for breakfast this morning!
this makes me so happy Theresa! you’re doin’ it!
I loved this post! Such nice reminders :)
I definitely should have read this on Monday. Still good on a Thursday!
This was so very needed today. Thank you :-)
Great post – thank you!
“Call someone you love. On the phone. With your voice. Itโs all about nurturing relationships which, apparently, donโt nurture themselves.” WITH YOUR VOICE made me laugh! Good advice, Joy – and I’d tell you that, with my voice, if I had your phone number. :-)
I make this at least once a week. It is so easy and my family devours it! Once again Joy, you are amazing. Thank you.