A Case of the Mondays

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Mondays are tough. After two days of fun and freedom, it's back to the daily grind. Here's my Survival Guide to help you get through your Monday and keep you happy:

1. Coffee. Lots of coffee. Preferably a Trenta- the new Big Gulp, 31oz. sized coffee now offered at Starbucks (which I was told this weekend can actually holds a bottle of wine). Also, throw an expresso shot in there for extra pizazz. This will help you change from zombie to semi-functional human by 8:30am.

2. Ah yes, Gmail. Well, most importantly, Gchat. This is the #1 way to get through a rough Monday morning. If your company doesn't block it from your computers, you're in luck. You can chat with friends and commiserate over the Monday blues. You can catch up on the past weekend's gossip, start planning for the next weekend, play "Would you rather?", and then the next thing you'll know...time is flying by! 

3.  Pandora. Who can be grumpy when Fergalicious is bumpin' through the computer speakers? Not this gal! Get a good playlist going and enjoy the tunes. Music always makes me happier. Suggestions for Pandora Monday playlists: Fergie, Earth Wind & Fire (September? Best song ever? YES), Zac Brown Band, Lady Gaga...just to name a few.

4. Start your morning by making a To-Do list. This is the first thing I do once I get to my desk. It helps you plan out your Monday and prevents you from becoming overwhelmed. Have to consent a patient coming in a 9:30am (I work in clinical research)? Put that at the top of the list. Have some papers to file? That can wait until later. By creating a To- Do list, it forces you to get over that lazy weekend mentality and get stuff done.

5. If you're Super Woman, like my good friend and co-worker Tracy, try to workout before arriving at work. Exercise gives you that extra energy boost to start your day and get the wheels turning. However, if you are unable to do so, try taking a walk outside at lunch. The fresh air is good for your mind, body, and soul, and it is nice to step away from your desk and enjoy the great outdoors. When you get back to your office you'll be refreshed, relaxed, and happier.

6. Wear a bright lipstick. It will light up your tired face and make you appear energized (even though you may feel the opposite). 

7. My favorite cure for a case of the Mondays = Berry Line. This frozen yogurt shop makes both my tummy and my heart happy. Plus, it's necessary in order to get past that afternoon lull when your blood sugar drops and you become groggy. A small froyo with yogurt chips, banana, strawberries, and mochi? Don't mind if I do! 

8. The Book of Awesome by Neil Pasricha has become one of my all-time favorites. He also has a great blog that is sure to bring a smile to your face: 1000 Awesome Things. I love checking it every day to see what Neil posts. His book and his blog reminds us to truly savor and enjoy life's little pleasures. He reminds us that a Monday is a gift rather than a burden, and that we have so many "awesome" things to be thankful for. Some good posts of his: #306- Wearing pajamas out of the house, #317- When you can hear it snow, and #449- Staying up so late that everything becomes funny. Check it out!

9. A nice (big) glass of wine to toast the end of your Monday (Kristen and I like Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc). You made it! Cheers!

xo,
Kendra