Weekends are undoubtedly the best part of the week. But as they come to an end and we begin thinking about the start of a new week, we may feel an unsettling feeling in our gut. Ever felt it? You’re not alone. What you’re feeling is often referred to as ‘Sunday scaries’.
What are Sunday scaries?
Sunday scaries are a form of anticipatory anxiety, which involves nervousness and dread about something that hasn’t happened yet – like the week ahead. The scaries are often triggered when Sunday doesn’t feel like “Sunday Funday” anymore and you have the realization that the weekend is coming to an end.
How can I avoid Sunday scaries?
According to a 2018 LinkedIn study , if the transition from Sunday to Monday makes you nervous, you’re part of the 80% of Americans who experience the “Sunday scaries.” We get it, we’ve been there too! Try these tips to help you avoid feeling anxious or unsettled on Sunday evenings.
- Get ahead for the upcoming week. Set aside some time during the weekend to wrap up loose ends and prepare for what’s to come. This could include meal prep or cleaning your room.
- Make Sunday special. Plan something fun for Sunday that will make you look forward to that time, such as enjoying your favorite treat, a warm bath, lighting a candle, coloring, reading a book, or spending some time outdoors.
- Get a good night’s rest. Getting a good night’s sleep on a Sunday night can start your week off well. Remember that 7-9 hours is crucial in order for you to perform your best.
- Jump-start your week. Wake up on Monday morning and start your week with some movement and a nutritious breakfast.
- Treat yourself to Monday morning perks like your favorite latte or this delicious homemade drink from Vitality Kitchen.
- Make midweek plans. Having something on the books for the week ahead can give you something to look forward to.
- Read motivational quotes or follow accounts that motivate you. Follow us on Instagram to see our #MondayMotivation posts or become a member of the Vitality Virtual Training Club on Facebook, a powerful online community where Vitality members can support one another on their personal health journeys and offer each other tips.
- Most of all, be kind to yourself. The weekend can be a time to relax, catch up on chores, spend time with family or support your favorite team. Don’t be hard on yourself for being upset that time is over…who can blame you? Instead, look forward to the next weekend ahead.
Try out some of these activities. We’re sure your Sundays will be a little less scary in no time!
