RMN'S Blog
Making It Through Monday
Monday is known for being a difficult day. After spending the weekend resting, relaxing, having fun or on a mini-vacation, it can be a challenge to get back into the swing of the work week. This can be exceptionally challenging after a long break, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. Although Mondays can be hard, what can be done to battle the Monday blues?
Drink water.
Yes, water. Coffee and energy drinks may be tempting at this time, and can provide you a quick boost of energy. However, that boot is very short-lived, and can leave you feeling drained. Instead, stay hydrated. Some symptoms of being dehydrated are fatigue, headaches and slow metabolism, which can be increased because of a long, busy weekend. Drinking water and staying hydrated throughout the day can help improve strength and mental agility by 18%.
Make sure to eat breakfast.
Skipping breakfast can affect your ability to remain alert, focused and maintain your concentration. Food is fuel for your body, so to get going, you need to eat a good breakfast. You should avoid breakfast foods high in sugar and carbohydrates, which, like energy drinks and coffee, can give you a short-lived boost of energy. Try foods high in fiber, protein, and Omega 3 fatty acids, such as oatmeal, greek yogurt, eggs, and bananas. Try this delicious, ginger oatmeal recipe.
Take a mental break.
Working throughout the day without a break can be draining, and will not make you a better employee. You will grow more fatigued and lose concentration. Take time to check up on the news, play sudoku or Candy Crush, or step outside for a little while.
Listen to music while you work.
Listening to music is linked to an increase in productivity, and is known to affect our mood. Make an office playlist with music you enjoy and use to get pumped. Sometimes your workout playlist is just the mix you need to stay motivated at work. Songza is a great music website, commercial free and has already made playlists that are suitable for work.
Move your body.
If you feel yourself dozing off, get up and stretch or take a little walk around the office. Even a trip to the bathroom or kitchen is enough movement to wake you up. The important thing is to get your blood flowing and muscles moving. Here are some great “deskercise” stretches you can do at your desk.
Although these tips may not rid you completely of your Monday blues, they are a great way to get you focused and alert for the work day. They can also be used throughout the week from Monday to Friday to help make you more productive. And remember, if you can survive through Monday, the rest of the week will be a breeze.
