Ah, Monday … the first day of the workweek, our to-do lists looming like black clouds over us … does anyone really like Mondays? However, Mondays truly can set the tone for the rest of the workweek, so don’t let your Monday be mired in misery and caffeine. I’m as guilty as the next person of pressing snooze one too many times on Monday mornings, but lately, I’ve been making an effort to start my weeks off on a good tone. A productive Monday leads to a happier workweek!

So, some tips!

1. Prioritize. I like to make a list on late Friday afternoons (or Sunday evenings!) of the big things I need to accomplish for the following week, as well as smaller things for Monday. By having everything in a list ahead of time, it’s easier to start being productive right away on Monday morning.

2. Plan ahead. On Sunday evenings, lay out your clothes for the next day, pack your lunch — do anything you need to do to make the next morning go smoothly. Sounds silly, sure, but you’ll be glad you did if you accidentally oversleep!

3. Get moving. I’m the first to admit I’m a terrible morning exerciser. (In fact, I’m sitting in my workout clothes as I type this, gearing up to hit the gym!). But any sort of movement in the mornings is good — stretching, a few minutes of yoga, some push-ups, crunches or lunges are all good to get the blood flowing at the beginning of the week.

4. It’s all about the tunes. I compulsively listen to music when I work — it helps me write. If you also listen to music while you work, be sure to change it up and play music to fit your mood. Or, play music to influence your mood! My standbys for beating writer’s block are The Beatles, Billy Joel and Radiohead. What are some of your favorite tunes to work to?

5. De-clutter your desk. I like to have everything visible, but neatly organized, however, everyone’s different. De-clutter the papers and memos that piled up from the week before and tidy your workspace so you won’t be distracted as you get down to business Monday morning.

6. Make it or break it. Your Monday morning meal can affect more than just your waistline — it can set the tone for the whole day. The importance of eating a healthy breakfast has long been taught to us, but it’s crucial to start the day off on a healthy tone. Oatmeal, vegetable omelets, whole-grain toast with peanut butter, fruit and yogurt are all healthy options.

No matter how many tasks are on your to-do list each week or how many different roles you have to fill in the organization, starting Monday off on the right note can set a great tone for the rest of the week. Although staffers and volunteers at small staff associations often have a greater variety of duties or responsibilities, making even small changes (such as eating a healthier breakfast) can help motivate you to be more productive.

Happy Monday!