There was a time when I was able to conquer each day as it came without planning a Sunday night routine. Now, with a husband and two littles, it’s important for me to think ahead and make a plan on how I can show up for myself and my family. I may not always stick to the plan because – life. But it’s nice to have some foundation to wrap your mind around how to spend the days.
The weekend Sundays are usually reserved for rest and relaxation. After church, Sunday night football or other traditions reserved for the day, I have found it to be imperative to prepare and process the week ahead.
My Sunday Night Routine
Breathe & Pray
After putting the littles to bed, I grab a cup of hot tea and take a moment to breathe. Is it just my kids, or do all kids tend to turn up right before bedtime. Chasing them around the living room can be exhausting and the last thing I want to do is prepare for a week ahead. However, after a slight pause to rest my mind and my nerves and a prayer to invite God into the rest of my evening, I’m fueled to at least make a plan.
Reflect on the Previous Week
The weeks usually don’t perfectly go according to plan but there’s another opportunity to reach a goal. I enjoy reflecting on the highs and lows of the previous week to stir me towards my new areas of focus. Perhaps the laundry piled up because the days were long. Perhaps I didn’t get to finish the big project I was working on. Reviewing the previous week gives me a starting for point for the following week. Rolling these to-dos over the following reminds me that I can always begin again and helps me feel confident that I am not dropping any balls.
Make a Plan
I love to take my planner and write, yes write, out all of my appointments, meetings and important things to remember for the week. I know we live digitally these days but nothing beats a pen and paper sometimes. I usually notice times that I’ve double booked myself or need to rearrange the schedule. This helps me be proactive instead of reactive. I’ve learned to eliminate more stress and anxiety by taking the time to write it out. Not only am I juggling my own schedule, but I’m also navigating the family’s schedule. Planning helps me consider everyone’s needs while still showing up for myself.
“For tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.” – African Proverb
Planned Self-Care
Planning days meticulously can lend towards over emphasis on productivity. As a recovering workaholic, I have to consciously remind myself that there needs to be room for a little self-care. I enjoy planning tea time, visiting the nail shop or indulging in other things I genuinely enjoy to take care of me.
So there you have it—my Sunday night routine in all its glory. It’s not always glamorous, and it certainly requires some juggling. But when Monday comes, I know the planning was worth every second. Here’s to embracing the chaos and tackling whatever the week throws our way.
By following this Sunday night routine, you can set a positive tone for the week and ensure you’re ready to show up for yourself and your family.
