What are Bare Minimum Mondays?

From Sunday scaries to Monday blues, easing into the work week isn’t always easy. Stepping into a world of overflowing emails, meetings, and urgent tasks can feel overwhelming! One-quarter of employees admitted they struggle with career burnout. The good news is here: there’s a trend called “Bare Minimum Mondays” that can ease workplace pressures.

What is it?

“Bare Minimum Mondays” are when employees start their Monday with a leisurely morning vs. diving into the toughest or stress-inducing tasks first. Whether it’s a workout class, meditation, or light reading, this is another window to recharge before the work week takes off.

“Despite all the changes, despite more flexibility and remote work—we’re not getting that work-life balance right,” says Marisa Jo, Startup Founder and TikToker. “When we look at what employees and workers really want at the moment, it’s autonomy.”

Mental Health Benefits of “Bare Minimum Mondays”

Boosts Morale

When employers show they value employees’ time and know when to push for a deadline vs. Mondays that are slower and employees can simply ease in — this builds a culture of trust. The alignment of objectives between management and employees creates flexibility, which alleviates stress and encourages workers to focus on mental health.

Increased Productivity

A 2017 study showed that a 25% reduction in work hours improved sleep quality and reduced stress levels. The bottom line is that more work hours don’t always equate to more output! Employees find that when they can take a step back from their busy workload, they return with enhanced concentration and increased productivity.

Reduces Burnout

Your workweek is a marathon — not a sprint. Spend your energy sustainably during the week to keep it from burning out faster. A study in 2022 found that taking a stroll through green spaces can offset the stress that comes from working in a demanding environment. By resting at the start of the week, there’s a moment to reset and focus on what needs to be accomplished first.

Identifying the Cause of Burnout

Large organizational issues like job demands and resources can create burnout. If there’s a high volume of burnout, this could be due to ineffective collaboration, poor time management, or a lack of efficient tools. As a result, this creates more absenteeism and less engagement and productivity overall.

Less Hustle Culture, More Care Culture

At the end of the day, healthier employees are happier employees! Through more self-care and balance, companies will find there’s a path of understanding that compliments both sides. By being more flexible to employees’ needs, you can reduce their stress levels and see them logging into work each Monday excited to start the work week.

Ready for a company that prioritizes your well-being? Start searching now.

If you enjoyed this article, check out these reads: How To Support Employee Mental Health, Future of Flexible Work Schedules, and Vacation Policies: How Employers are Finding New Ways to Encourage Time Off.