Getting a new job might be the best solution for a better Monday morning!

There was a time in my life when Monday mornings felt like a punishment. I dreaded getting out of bed, hating every moment that led to another day at a job that drained me. I was tired—emotionally and physically—and the weight of the world seemed to rest solely on my shoulders. Every day stretched on endlessly, as if I were fighting a battle all by myself.

At that time, I convinced myself that my misery was all because I had too much going on outside of work—overpacked weekends, personal chaos—and that the office was just another battleground in an already overwhelming life. I even rationalized that I’d rather fall ill than face another day. Funny thing is, we eventually get so used to a toxic environment that we start justifying it to ourselves, until we begin to believe that this is simply “normal.”

If this resonates with you, keep reading.

I was in that dark place. I blamed everything and everyone else for my unhappiness, never realizing that I was trapped in a toxic work environment. It wasn’t until 7 to 10 months into my new role—after I had left that toxic company behind—that I finally saw the truth. I realized that the crushing dread I felt every Monday wasn’t an inevitable part of work life; it was a symptom of a broken system.

Today, as I sit here on a Monday morning, I want to share one powerful truth with you: you do not have to feel anxious, afraid, or utterly miserable about going to work. This isn’t normal, and it’s not what you deserve.

The Research Speaks: Toxic Workplaces vs. Great Places to Work

Studies consistently show the damaging impact of toxic work environments. For example, Gallup’s research reveals that employees in toxic settings are far more likely to experience burnout, with many even considering quitting their jobs. In stark contrast, organizations that cultivate a positive and supportive culture see engagement levels soar—up to three times higher—and benefit from improved productivity, creativity, and retention.

Harvard Business Review has reported that toxic environments can slash productivity by as much as 20%, while companies with healthy cultures enjoy not only higher performance but also a significant boost in employee morale. These numbers aren’t just statistics; they serve as a roadmap for creating a workplace where you and your team can truly thrive.

Transforming Mondays with Micro Moves

So, what changed for me? I started taking what I now call “Monday Micro Moves”—small, deliberate actions that transformed my outlook and set the stage for a strategic, impactful week. Here’s how you can do it too:

• Start with Reflection: Begin your Monday with a few minutes of quiet reflection. Identify one small, positive change you can make today that will improve your mood and set a productive tone for the week. This could be a simple mindful pause, a gratitude ritual, or setting a clear intention for the day.
• Engage Your Team: Shift the mindset from “I have to do it all” to “we’re in this together.” When you share your challenges and invite your team to contribute ideas, the burden feels lighter, and collective energy takes over. The power of collaboration can turn a tough day into a shared journey toward success.
• Set a Positive Tone: Use your past struggles as a catalyst for change. Remember that the environment you’re in is a reflection of the culture around you. Commit to creating a space where every challenge is just a stepping stone, not a barrier. Even on the toughest days, remind yourself that a difficult day is simply a part of the process.
• Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. A great workplace isn’t just about the work itself—it’s about the people you share it with. Cultivate relationships that foster growth, understanding, and mutual support.

The Takeaway

I’ve been where you might be right now—feeling weighed down by a toxic work environment, dreading Mondays, and convinced that the struggle was just “part of the job.” But I learned that we all have the power to change our narrative. You deserve to wake up excited, knowing that your work fuels your passion rather than drains your spirit.

This Monday, I challenge you to take one micro move—a small, positive action that will set the tone for a transformative week. Recognize that your feelings about work are not something you have to accept. You have the power to shift your environment, to build a culture that supports and uplifts you, and to make every day a stepping stone toward a better, brighter future.

Let’s build a future where Mondays aren’t a source of dread but a launchpad for innovation, collaboration, and genuine growth.

Drop your thoughts in the comments below—what’s one micro move you’re committing to this week to transform your Monday?

See you at the top,

MV

Sources: Gallup (2020). "Boosting Employee Engagement through Leadership Practices." Harvard Business Review (2018). "The Impact of Workplace Culture on Employee Performance."