It is my first blog post of September and that means the fall season is creeping upon us, which also means October and Halloween are just around the corner. But this week I am not sharing a blog post to fight off actual spooky things, but rather the Sunday Scaries: the eerie feeling you get in your stomach on a Sunday night knowing you have school the next day. That universal feeling where you think you have a million things to do, and something is making you so anxious but you can’t put a finger on exactly on what. If you’ve ever found yourself feeling this way, you’re not alone. But don’t worry, I am sharing a short guide on different ways to ease your stress on Sundays and fight the scaries away.
Try to pinpoint what is stressing you out
Think about what is making you feel overwhelmed. When I get stressed out I tend to bury away what is making me feel that way, which does not really help me in the long run. Try to pinpoint the things that are stressing you out, and think of some different ways to put an end to these stressors. You are not going to fix everything in one day and it is normal to be stressed, but if you face what is stressing you out, you will feel a lot better.
Make a to-do list, and be realistic with it!
Make a list of the things you want to get done, it could be homework for school or even a personal goal. Understand that you will not get everything done in one Sunday, and the list is just to help you gauge what you want to get completed. If your brain is feeling fuzzy with too much to do, write it all down so you can actually see the things making you feel this way.
Prioritize what you want to get done
Sometimes you may look at your to-do list and feel like there is no possible way you will complete everything. Prioritize the main things you want to get done, and get the big things out of the way first. Choose what things you really want to get done and work on those things first. Understand that you won’t get everything done in one day, and that’s ok.
Turn on a show or movie while you work
While this may not be the best tip for easily distracted workers, having a comfort show in the background while I work is the best way for me to get things done. It keeps me from being bored while doing mundane tasks! Plus, comfort shows have a way of easing stress and relaxing you best!
Get some fresh air
As fall approaches the weather becomes more pleasurable, and in my opinion it’s the best time to be outside! Take some time during the day to go outside, whether it’s just completing your work outside or being active. According to the American Heart Association, spending time outdoors can reduce your feelings of stress and anxiety. Find some time to go outside each Sunday to get some fresh air, it will make you feel a lot better!
Allow yourself to relax, it is still the weekend
Don’t let Sunday turn into Monday! It is still a day off, so use it as one. Take some time for yourself too. As the school year picks up and the work gets busier, remind yourself that you still deserve time to relax! Sundays are also great days to refresh yourself for the week ahead.