Serial entrepreneur Jesse Merrill, the force behind Good Culture, knows that working hard demands balance. Getting outdoors, disconnecting from technology, and practicing mindful meditation are a few of the ways he recharges for the week ahead.
Read on to discover more tips on how to stay focused and engaged during the week. Here’s how Merrill likes to Start It Sunday:
Q: What does your Sunday routine look like?
A: I am up by 8 am and go for a run outside in the fresh air to clear my head. When I return, I catch up on priority emails but I make an effort to not spend more than one hour doing this. Disconnecting for the majority of the weekend helps you to rebalance and come back to work on Monday with a clear, calm focus so you can make better decisions and lead the team more effectively. I also always make an effort to enjoy some quality 1985 time with my family. When I refer to 1985, I’m talking about being outdoors, without screens, and making deep connections with the people who you are with. This quality time with the people you love helps to reduce work-related anxiety, as it sharpens the bigger picture and allows you to focus on what really matters. In the evening, I cook a big dinner. Cooking and listening to the sounds of your family definitely help you ease into your week with a lot of gratitude and a full heart. Before heading to bed, I meditate for 15 minutes and read for 30. Again, this helps to clear your mind, relax your soul, and get ready for a kick-ass week.
Q: How do you approach the start of each work week?
A: With a lot of love! Appreciate everything in your life and express intense gratitude. The last thing that you want to do when beginning a new week is to fall victim to the scarcity mindset (i.e. I’ll never have enough, I wish I had what brand X has, etc.). This will deplete cognitive resources and will certainly not allow you to put your best foot forward.
Go into the new week with a positive mindset. Thank your employees for doing a great job and take a step back and appreciate what you have versus focusing only on what you haven’t accomplished yet.
Once you do this and you feel your body radiating with happiness, fulfillment, and positivity — charge the mountain and win!
Q: What are some tips for motivating on Monday?
A: I absolutely love my morning run. It is a form of meditation for me where I can truly be in the moment. Once I have completed my run, I feel renewed mentally and physically. I can now start the day with gusto. Also, have a clear plan for the week. What are your core objectives? How are we defining success? Having passion and winging it is not enough. The quote, “Passion without a plan is a waste of energy” has always resonated with me and drives me to be hyper-intentional throughout each day.
Read our full exclusive interview with Merrill here.
