23 Wednesdays

My kids taught me the term Sunday Scaries. Evidently this term talks about the anxiety and maybe dread one feels at the end of the weekend and the anticipation of the upcoming workweek. AI Chat defines Sunday Scaries as a form of anticipatory anxiety about something that hasn't happened.

When I hear this term my immediate reaction is what a waste of a day off. But in truth, during my decades of work I had many moments of anticipatory anxiety about things like paperwork, returning phone calls, deadlines, making tough decisions and anticipated problems. In my later years, I learned being prepared was almost always the answer to managing anxiety so I would make sure meals were made ahead, clothing was ironed the night before and a list was completed about what needed to be done the next day. So much of my time was spent thinking about work, preparing for work or going to work.

In my therapy practice, I often have clients complete a Life Pie where we discuss the percentage of time they spend in work, play, family time and personal growth. Many times work takes a very large percentage of the pie. We discuss how to find more balance in life and steps they can take towards this balance.

In my own life, I regret I wasn't better at finding balance. Work is important but does not need to take over your life.

I hope that retirement reduces the Sunday Scaries for me and allows my Life Pie to be filled with delicious fun!