Life can feel like an all-you-can-eat buffet of responsibility. Work, family, errands, emails... it all stacks up until you’re left wondering, “Where did the week go?” For the longest time, I’d hit Friday completely drained and spend the weekend playing catch-up, only to find myself starting Monday in the same frazzled state. Sound familiar?
That’s when I stumbled upon the concept of a weekend reset, and trust me, it’s been a game-changer. By intentionally setting aside time to recharge, reorganize, and refocus, I’ve not only found my weekends more relaxing but my weeks have become more productive and, dare I say, enjoyable. I’m here to share what works for me, so you can make it work for you, too.
A weekend reset is a structured approach to preparing for the upcoming week. It involves reflecting on the past week, organizing your physical and mental spaces, and setting intentions for the days ahead. Unlike a typical weekend filled with errands or leisure activities, a reset is about balance—combining productivity with relaxation to restore both your energy and focus.
By dedicating time to a weekend reset, you can:
Taking time to reflect on the previous week helps you understand what worked, what didn’t, and what adjustments are needed. Reflection also encourages mindfulness and keeps you aligned with your goals.
A tidy space leads to a tidy mind. Cleaning and organizing your surroundings create a sense of order that can improve focus and reduce stress.
For workspaces, clear your desk of clutter and arrange items for easy access. If you work from home, set up your space to promote productivity. For personal spaces, like your bedroom or closet, focus on creating a calm and relaxing environment.
Map out your week in advance to reduce decision fatigue and ensure you’re prepared for important events and deadlines.
Plan your meals for the week to save time and make healthier choices. Write a grocery list based on your planned meals and consider prepping ingredients in advance. For example, chop vegetables, portion snacks, or cook a batch of grains for easy use throughout the week.
Gratitude can shift your mindset and improve overall well-being. Write down three things you’re grateful for from the past week, such as a meaningful conversation, personal progress, or something that made you laugh.
Use a journal to outline your intentions for the week ahead. For instance:
Even 5–10 minutes of meditation or mindfulness can help you reset mentally. Use a guided meditation app, like Calm or Headspace, or simply sit in silence and focus on your breath.
A weekend reset isn’t just about productivity—it’s also about recharging your energy. Self-care can take many forms, from physical activities to relaxation techniques.
Unfinished tasks from the past week can weigh heavily on your mind. Use your weekend reset to address lingering responsibilities, such as paying bills, responding to emails, or completing errands.
Focus on high-priority tasks that need immediate attention. For less urgent items, consider delegating them or scheduling them for later in the week.
Weekends are an excellent time to nurture relationships with family and friends. Plan a meal, go for a walk together, or catch up over a phone call. Building connections can improve your mood and provide a sense of balance.
While connecting with others is important, don’t overcommit to social plans if you need downtime. It’s okay to say no or limit your availability to preserve your reset time.
Set yourself up for a smooth Monday by preparing the night before. Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, and review your schedule to ensure everything is in place.
If you work from home, arrange your desk with all necessary tools, such as your laptop, notebook, and pens. A clean, organized workspace makes it easier to dive into your tasks.
A good night’s sleep is crucial for starting the week with energy and focus. Aim to get 7–9 hours of rest by establishing a calming bedtime routine, such as reading, meditating, or listening to relaxing music.
Consistency is key to making your weekend reset a habit. Choose a specific time each weekend—such as Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon—to complete your reset activities.
Every weekend is different, and sometimes life gets in the way of your reset plans. That’s okay! Adjust your routine as needed and focus on completing the most important tasks.
As you practice your weekend reset, take time to evaluate what’s working and what isn’t. Tweak your routine to better suit your needs and preferences.
And that’s my weekend reset! It’s not about doing everything perfectly or following a strict formula. It’s about creating a routine that fits your life, gives you clarity, and helps you start the week feeling truly refreshed. Trust me, once you try it, you won’t look back. Start small, be kind to yourself, and tweak it so it works for you. You’ve got this—I’m rooting for you!
