Feeling the Sunday Scaries? 5 Simple Hacks for a Calmer, Happier Week

Let’s be honest. Sunday evening rolls around, and sometimes, instead of feeling rested, a wave of anxiety about the upcoming week hits. The mental to-do list starts growing, the calendar looks packed, and the promise of a peaceful weekend feels like a distant memory.

Here in Northeast Arkansas, life moves at its own pace, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t busy. Between work, family, errands, and trying to have a social life, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly running on empty.

But what if you could reclaim your week? What if you could move from a state of chaotic reaction to one of calm intention?

Here at Three & Beyond, we’re more than just a store; we’re part of your community. We believe that a better lifestyle isn’t about grand, sweeping changes—it’s about the small, intentional habits that add up. Here are five of our favorite, totally achievable hacks for a calmer, more joyful week.

1. The “Power Hour” Reset

Instead of letting tasks pile up, dedicate just one hour on Sunday to a “Power Hour.” This isn’t about deep cleaning or massive projects. It’s about hitting the reset button.

• What to do: Put on your favorite playlist, set a timer for 60 minutes, and tackle the small things that create mental clutter. Tidy up the main living area, wipe down the kitchen counters, plan your outfits for the first couple of days, and write down your top 3 priorities for Monday.
• Why it works: You’re front-loading the peace of mind. Waking up Monday morning to a tidy space and a clear plan eliminates that immediate feeling of being behind.

2. Romanticize Your Routine

Who says your morning coffee has to be a frantic rush? Turn a mundane task into a mindful ritual. Whether it’s your morning cup, your evening skincare, or the way you make your bed, slow down and savor it.

• What to do: Use your favorite mug. Light a candle with a scent you love while you get ready. Put on a podcast while you prep lunch. Find a small moment of beauty in the everyday.
• Why it works: This practice grounds you in the present moment. It’s a small act of self-care that reminds you that your day is made up of more than just obligations. It’s made of moments.

3. Embrace the “Done is Better Than Perfect” Tidy-Up

Have 10 minutes before you need to leave the house? Don’t just scroll on your phone. Use that pocket of time for a quick “clutter sweep.”

• What to do: Grab a basket and walk through one or two rooms, collecting anything that’s out of place—shoes by the door, mail on the counter, toys on the floor. Put everything in the basket. You can either put the items away immediately or just place the basket in a closet to deal with later.
• Why it works: This simple trick provides a huge visual impact with minimal effort. A clear space leads to a clearer mind, making it easier to relax and focus.

4. Schedule Your “Nothing” Time

Look at your calendar for the week. Now, find a 30-minute block and schedule an appointment with yourself. Label it “Nothing Time.”

• What to do: During this time, you have one job: do absolutely nothing productive. Read a chapter of a book, sit on your porch, stretch, or just listen to the quiet. The key is to treat this time as non-negotiable, just like any other appointment.
• Why it works: In a culture that glorifies being busy, intentionally choosing rest is a revolutionary act. It prevents burnout and allows your mind and body to truly recharge, making you more effective when you do need to be productive.

5. Connect with Your Community (The Easy Way)

Feeling connected is a powerful antidote to stress. But you don’t need to plan a big get-together to feel it.

• What to do: Send a quick “thinking of you” text to a friend. Leave a positive comment on a local business’s social media page. When you shop with a local store (like us!), you’re doing more than just buying a product; you’re strengthening the fabric of our Northeast Arkansas community. You get your items fast, and you know you’re supporting a neighbor.
• Why it works: These small acts of connection remind us that we’re part of something bigger. That support system, even in small doses, is a huge buffer against daily stress.

A calmer week is within your reach. It starts with one small, intentional choice at a time.

What’s your go-to hack for a less stressful week? Share it in the comments below—we’d love to hear it!