A Sunday Reset for When You’re Overwhelmed

Sundays can be tricky.

I love the idea of being “productive” before a new week, but I also know how quickly that drive can spiral into a cycle of overwork. When I’ve tried to cram too much into my Sunday, I just end up starting Monday tired, not ahead.

This summer, I’ve been trying to redefine what a productive Sunday looks like. Sometimes I still play a little catch-up, but I also make space for a quick check-in and reset before the week ahead.

It’s simple, it’s low-pressure, and it honestly feels like a small act of kindness to my future self.

Today’s reset is perfect for one of those Sundays when you feel way behind, overwhelmed, or unsure where to start:

1. The 3-Minute Brain Dump

Grab a pen and clear your head – deadlines, errands, chores, random “don’t forget” thoughts. No structure, no rules – just getting it out of your brain and onto paper (or your phone or computer – whatever works best for you).

2. The Weekly Planner

If you read my last blog post Balanced Productivity: The 3×3 Rule, you know this is my go to productivity method. I take my brain dump and to-do list and outline my week using that framework: 3 main tasks, 3 small tasks, and 3 “me” tasks for each day. I don’t fill in the entire week – I leave room for things that will inevitably come up – but it takes the pressure off feeling like everything has to happen today.

3. The Space Reset

I tidy the spaces I’ll see first thing Monday – usually my kitchen and my office space. A clear space makes it so much easier to focus, and I know Monday-me will be grateful.

4. Bonus (If You Have the Bandwidth)

If you’re craving something more reflective, try one of my earlier Sunday Reset posts for a mindful and reflective start to the week. Sometimes, a slower reset is exactly what we need.

Maybe your Sunday feels chaotic. Maybe it’s perfectly calm. Either way, a few intentional minutes today can help you walk into the new week feeling grounded, prepared, and (hopefully) a little less stressed.

Here’s to balance – one Sunday reset at a time.