The Ultimate "Sunday Reset" Checklist to Prepare For the Week Ahead

Who said Sunday isn't a day for rest and relaxation? We can't stop time marching forward, but we can reframe the end of the weekend from something to dread to a chance to recharge, reconnect with ourselves, and plan for the week ahead.

The "Sunday reset routine" has captured the attention of TikTok, where users share how they end their weekends and prepare their minds, bodies, and homes for the week ahead. A reset could look like pretty much anything restorative — the only rule is that you set aside some time for yourself. Anything beyond that is all about setting yourself up well for the following week; ideally, your reset allows you to check off some tasks that you won't be able to get to during a busy work week. TikTok has no shortage of inspiring montages set to soft music showing laundry being folded, kitchens and bathrooms being scrubbed, and meals being prepped and planned.

It's not all household chores and errands, however: part of resetting includes unwinding and finding moments for joy and relaxation, like leisurely sipping coffee or going on a walk, too. There isn't one correct way to do this, so read on for 15 Sunday reset ideas that can help you build your own routine from there.

1. Unplug from your phone and screens.

Screens can feel inescapable during the work week, so give your eyes and brain a chance to rest by finding some time to unplug. Read a book, or take some time to doodle, color, or jot down some thoughts and reflections in a journal. You can even meditate, too.

2. Make a more involved breakfast.

Quick, easy breakfasts are the norm during the work week, so consider Sunday your chance to really settle in for a slow, relaxing meal. Make yourself a special beverage and whip up a dish that's a bit more involved than your usual, like some dressed-up avocado toast, a breakfast burrito, or a veggie-packed frittata. (You could even take a crack at Nara Smith's homemade cereal if you're curious about it.)

3. Make time to move outside.

Incorporating movement into your Sunday sets you on the right path for the week. Being outside is beneficial for both the mind and body, so call a friend to meet for a walk or go on a solo stroll. If weather doesn't permit, head to the gym or try some Pilates or yoga at home.

4. Add one extra-special step to your pampering routine.

Don't neglect your body when it comes to relaxing, too. Add one special step to your skin- or body-care routine on Sunday, because you deserve it. Use a face or hair mask, or give yourself an at-home manicure or pedicure.

5. Take an "everything shower."

Keep the pampering going by taking an everything shower, one that includes more steps than you may have time for otherwise. Don't just settle for a quick rinse; cleanse, shave, wash your hair and body, and use any in-shower treatments or masks that you wouldn't have time for during the week. Go wild and make it a bubble bath if you'd prefer.

6. Catch up on your entertainment of choice.

Remember that your Sunday reset doesn't have to be all work and no play — make some time to stay current with your shows, too. Watch the latest episode of "Masters of the Air" or listen to "Las Culturistas" while you walk, fold laundry, or devise your meals for the week.

7. Take inventory.

Imagine your house is a store and you're taking inventory to see what you need to restock. You don't want to start doing your laundry, for example, and learn you're out of laundry pods. Look through your shelves and cabinets and note whether you need to replace your face wash, dish liquid, trash bags, etc. While you're at it, peek in the fridge and toss any wilted produce or expired food. Then, order what you need online or make a list to take to the store.

8. Plan your meals for the week.

Meal planning takes the guesswork out of feeding yourself and can help you stick to a nourishing meal plan. Make a grocery list for what you'd like to cook and eat, or clean out your fridge by using what you already have. If you have time to cook on Sunday, start preparing components of your lunches and dinners (maybe try firing up your slow cooker for something warming and wholesome?) and chop and wash any fruits or veggies you'll need for snacks or lunches.

9. Give your bathroom a wipe-down.

The bathroom can get messy throughout the week, so reset by returning it to cleanliness. Spray and wipe the counters, replenish the toilet paper and soap, and give the tub, sink, and toilet a quick scrub with some cleanser.

10. Clear off your "clothing chair."

You may find that a specific spot in your bedroom (say, a chair or the floor) becomes a landing area for discarded clothes during the week, so now's the time to remedy that. Hang or fold clean items and toss dirty ones in the hamper.

11. Sort through your mail.

It's easy to miss important correspondence via snail mail if you don't check it every day, so sort through any letters, bills, or other important documents in your mailbox on Sunday. Prevent pileup on an entryway table by immediately recycling junk and filing away essentials. Break down and toss any boxes from packages, too.

12. Collect and wash any stray dishes.

It's easy to let stray water glasses and tea mugs stay on a nightstand or end table all week. Do a walk-through of your space and return any dirty dishes to the sink or the dishwasher.

13. Do a load of laundry.

Use your Sunday reset as a chance to chip away at your hamper. If you're not in the mood to tackle all your sheets or clothes, start with something small like your underwear and socks.

14. Change your sheets and towels.

That said, experts do recommend washing sheets and towels weekly to prevent the buildup of sweat and oils, so why not make this task with high reward part of your Sunday reset? Change your sheets and pillowcases and swap your hand and bath towels for clean ones to start the week fresh.

15. Review your appointments and plans for the week.

Part of resetting for the week ahead involves actually figuring out what the week ahead brings. Whether your calendar is digital or analog (as in a daily planner), take a moment to review any upcoming appointments, plans with friends, or big work assignments on the horizon so nothing takes you by surprise.

Helen Carefoot is a freelance lifestyle, culture, and entertainment journalist based in Washington DC. Previously, she was Well+Good's Lifestyle Writer and worked at The Washington Post on the lifestyle desk in the features section.