Monday’s Villain Status

We’ve all seen some version of this meme—the one where Mondays are the villain. It’s funny…mostly because we’ve all felt it at some point. The “Sunday Scaries” and that Monday morning unease are so common, they’ve basically become a part of our cultural script. But what if they didn’t have to be?

My grandfather worked for decades in a leadership role at the National Park Service, and he used to say, “I never dreaded Mondays. My job never felt like work.” It wasn’t a humblebrag. It was his way of reminding me that work could feel different. Maybe even good.

Not every season of our careers will be amazing. But there’s something to be said for not spending Sunday afternoons in a mild existential crisis, bracing for Monday like it’s a storm. I’m not saying we should all pack up and move to Portugal (…unless?). But maybe it’s not about escaping. Maybe it’s about reworking how work fits into our lives.

When our work aligns with our energy, values, and strengths, the week hits differently. Not perfect, but more grounded.

What helps make your Sundays and Mondays feel less daunting?