11 Secrets From Super Organized People on How to Make Mondays More Productive

Set yourself up for success on Monday by prepping on Sunday. “I handle practical tasks like packing my work bag, prepping my daughter’s school items, loading the dishwasher and setting up the coffee machine,” says professional organizer Laura Kinsella of Urban OrgaNYze. “These small actions create a calm morning, freeing up my energy for work priorities and handling any unexpected hiccups.”

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But don’t be too hard on yourself. “Just because it's Monday doesn’t mean everything on your list is going to get handled,” says Ann Lightfoot, cofounder of Done & Done Home. “Figure out the three most important things that need to be addressed, and focus on those.” Prioritizing will make it easier to jump into your work, as well.

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Getting rid of clutter is always a good thing! “A clutter-free environment can significantly boost your focus and overall productivity,” says Rosenthal. “Before you dive into your work, organize your workspace by clearing away unnecessary items, filing paperwork, and eliminating distractions. A clean and organized desk promotes mental clarity and helps you stay on task.”

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Focusing on the big stuff helps you achieve a sense of accomplishment that fuels your momentum for the rest of the day. “When you take care of the most difficult item early on, everything else feels easier in comparison,” says Rosenthal. Knocking out the biggest task will mean you have nothing to dread for the rest of the day. Set a timer to stay on track, close unnecessary tabs, turn off notifications and silence your phone to eliminate distractions.

On the other hand, some people feel more productive when they tackle little jobs first. A sense of accomplishment early in the day can drive the rest of your work. “Not every Monday begins with boundless motivation,” says Kinsella. “When my energy feels low, I start with small, quick wins, like responding to a simple scheduling email. These bite-sized tasks help build momentum for tackling bigger projects.”

Push big deadlines back by a day. Instead of putting the pressure on yourself on the first day of the week, "leave Monday as a day for prep and productivity, without the stress of performance,” says Meena. “It will be much easier to get stuff done without trying to cram it in before a big appointment.”

Sometimes the quiet of early morning can be just what you need to feel more balanced as you start the week. “If Mondays really cause you a lot of stress, you may want to wake up a little earlier than usual,” says Lightfoot. “Even a half-hour may give you the jumpstart you need to feel in control for the rest of the day and week.”

Maybe it seems like a little thing, but you can’t focus if you’re hungry and tired. Take care of you, which means getting to bed on time and eating right — not just grabbing a cup of coffee on the way out the door. “If you struggle to have a positive attitude at the beginning of the week, make sure you take the time to have a nourishing breakfast and hydrate throughout the day,” says Lightfoot. “Little things can make a big difference in your outlook.”

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While phones and email are essential tools, they can quickly become productivity traps. “I set clear boundaries based on the day’s demands,” says Kinsella. “For example, on client days, I check email only twice, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. On work-from-home days, I designate email check-ins between tasks. I also silence social media notifications.” By controlling what’s constantly demanding your attention, you’ll be more efficient.

If you’re feeling unfocused or have a case of the Monday blues, stop and take a deep breath. “Step outside for fresh air, or adjust your approach,” says Kinsella. “Productivity naturally ebbs and flows, and embracing breaks is essential for maintaining long-term efficiency and avoiding burnout.” Forcing yourself to work when you really just need a break won't help anything.

Pick a Monday night reward for your super-productive morning. “Leave work early, plan dinner with friends, get to a workout class, turn off your phone and take a hot bath,” says Meena. “Do something restorative at the end of the day, giving you motivation to make the most of the morning.”