It’s Just another manic Monday/ I wish it was a Sunday/Case that’s my funday/My I don’t have to runday/ It’s just another manic Monday… “Manic Monday” The Bangles 1986
The definition of Manic is busy, frantic. I have had some manic Mondays and there are still times when my Mondays are a little manic. I often dread my Monday to-do list. It’s filled with trips to the grocery, Laundry, Homework, and all of the stuff that we have put off from the week and weekend before. However, I am inclined to believe that my Mondays can be a lot less manic.
Breaking the Mania
Mania can be broken through SMART planning. SMART stands for: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Rewardable, and Trackable. It’s not enough to say “today I am going to get everything done”. We have to be SMART in our planning.
Specific
On Sunday Evening, begin to plan your week and each day in it. Look at your Monday and attempt to plan the day from beginning to end (meals included). Be as specific as possible down to the minute if you need to.
Measurable
Prioritize your day by how much things mean to you. Things of high importance should be done first. Things that are not so important can wait until later in the day.
Attainable
In order for planning to really be effective, you must set small attainable plans. For example, my laundry day is Friday and the only goal I have for that day is finishing the laundry. The kitchen just has to wait.
Rewarding
Make your day rewarding, it is the easiest way to get through the day, week, or any task.
Trackable
“I haven’t gotten anything done today!” I keep this thought at bay by tracking my tasks for the day and the week. It helps me to see what I did get done even when I don’t get everything done.
SMART planning helps me to see that the day has been so “manic” after all.
