13 Simple Tasks To Set You Up For A Productive Week

A productive week starts way before the alarm goes off a Monday morning, as long as you've got a good plan in place. Granted things will always come up unexpectedly, but having prepared and planned for the week ahead will make a huge difference. You'll be so relieved that the rest of the week will seem so much more simple. Here are 13 simple tasks you can do to set you up for a productive week.

“For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned.” – Anonymous.

After having months off work with no formal routine during the lockdown, I had a huge awakening to the reality that it's back to work now.  With so much time off I can barely remember my "Sunday routine". I say Sunday because most people start their week on a Monday.

If I don't spend some time preparing and organising myself for the week ahead once I am back to work, then there will be a whole heap of stress coming my way.

I don't know about you, but I start to feel really stressed and out of control when I don't have things organised. Life at the moment is feeling like it needs a massive clearout.

One of the things I find that helps me to control my stress levels is by trying to stay on top of things. I can quickly end up in chaos, so I find that having something as structured as a routine really helps.

By spending a day or a few hours per week, can make a massive difference to whether the week runs smoothly and you can be productive or not. Obviously, the amount of time you need to spend will depend upon how much you need to do

With planning ahead, you will have a new perspective, you'll find new ideas for how to move forward and accomplish your goals. You'll feel rejuvenated and have more energy to dedicate to your tasks.

13 simple tasks to set you up for a productive week:

Plan ahead.

The first things you are going to need to do is make a list of all the things you are going to need to get organised.

Obviously, once you have written this list up, you can just refer back to it each week and just add anything that is different for that particular week.

1. Food plan for the week ahead

One of the best ways to set you up for a productive week is to work out all the meals you will need in advance. This is great as it saves time, we eat better and hopefully long term it will start saving us money.

2. Grocery shop

 Now you know what meals you will be making, make sure you have all of the food you will need for the week. This saves you time just popping to the shops after work every day like I used to.

Also, make a note of any cleaning supplies and anything else you might need for the week while you're at it to save time.

Clean and clear your space. 

3. Get that Spring cleaning vibe going

Pop some music on, clean, tidy, organise and take the bins out.

4. Change the bed 

What better way to start off the week than with clean sheets?

5. Get the bulk of the washing done

That way, you don't have to come home and do it. Plus you have all of your clothes to choose outfits from.

Take care of any life admin.

6. Is there anything you didn't get a chance to do or finish during the week? 

Doing it now is the perfect way to get the task out of the way and start afresh next week.

Tackle your email inbox if it's overflowing, for example.

I always do a bit of blog admin, like have Tweets scheduled and have Pinned my latest blog post to Pinterest. I moved my blog posting day from a Sunday to a Tuesday, so I can get all of that done before my mind shifts to work. That way, I can just keep on top of comments and reading other blogs when I have some spare time.

Get prepared for the week ahead.

7. Check your calendar

What is coming up?

What do you need to remember, and are there any appointments you need to make?

8. Batch Cook

We have been doing really well with batch cooking this year. Every week we have been making a few dishes, having some and freezing the rest into individual portions.

Another win is while your batch cooking, you could easily make some extra for the weeks lunches.

9. Have a 'to-do' list for the next week

Even if it's only in a loose note form for the week.

I've been using the TeuxDeux app (not sponsored) I just like how you can divide everything into different categories.

10. Get clothes out ready for the next day

Even better have a week of outfits all planned out.

I love watching The Anna Edit for her wardrobe organisation inspiration.

11. Charge any technology you need

For example, charge any portable phone chargers or if you may need your camera that week.

For me, I need to remember to charge my Fitbit. I used to get to about Wednesday, and it would die!

Relaxation and Self-care.

Make sure you end your Sunday routine with something that will relax you.

12. Indulge in some self-care

What better way to relax that indulge in some pampering self-care.

I like to do a hair or face mask or something 'different' than my usual rushed daily shower.

13. Build-in relaxing time

The final simple tasks you can do to set you up for a productive week is to end the day with some relaxation time.

Read a book or get out for a walk.

We live right next to a park, so no excuses just to take a walk and get the steps up.

We also like to save up our TV and binge watch it on our last evening off.

What's your ideal reset day routine?

I would love to hear your ideas. 

Lots of love,

Helen x