The Last Monday of Summer

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 There’s a strange tension in the air during the last week of summer break.

Part of me is excited—ready to get back into the rhythm, see familiar faces, feel that buzz of a new school year.

But there’s another part that quietly whispers, “Can’t we have just a little more time?”

And I’ll admit—it feels weird to say that out loud.

After all, people in “normal” jobs don’t get two months to reset. They don’t get to pause and recharge the same way we do in education. So who am I to complain?

But here’s what I’m learning:

  • Gratitude and weariness can exist at the same time.
  • Joy for the work and a longing for rest are not enemies—they’re just both true.

And that tug-of-war feeling?

It’s not just about the end of summer.
It’s what most people feel every Sunday night.
Or Monday morning.
Or every time we leave comfort for calling.

Because, all too often, Monday is the real hurdle of the week.
Tuesday is almost Wednesday.
Wednesday is halfway home.
Thursday is basically Friday.
And Friday? Friday carries its own momentum.

But Monday?
Monday asks the most of us.

So maybe that’s where the opportunity is.

If we can approach Monday with passion and intentionality—we don’t just survive the week.

 We set the tone to lead it.


Try This:

  1. Name the “Why” for This Season.
    The reason you show up today might not be the same as last year—or even last week. Maybe right now it’s about providing stability, chasing a dream, growing your skills, or simply keeping a promise to yourself.
    Your “why” isn’t permanent. It’s personal—and seasonal.

     Take a moment to name what it is right now—and let that be enough.

  2. Build a Monday Morning Ritual.
    Whether it’s music, movement, or a moment of silence, create a short rhythm that grounds you before the day starts. It doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be yours.

  3. Celebrate a Win by Wednesday.
    Plan to notice and name one thing that’s working. By midweek, let that win become your anchor.

  4. Talk Back to the Dread.
    Instead of saying, “I have to go back,” try: “I get to make a difference.” (Even if you don’t feel it yet, saying it can shape how you show up.) I know it sounds cheesy, but we can create a playlist of thoughts that set the tone for our day (and our week).

  5. Rest with Intention.
    Don’t just wait for the weekend to collapse. Schedule moments—yes, schedule them—to breathe, laugh, unplug, or move your body. Recovery is part of the work. Being intentional about those moments will help fuel you throughout each day.


So here’s to Mondays—and to the courage it takes to show up when it would be easier not to.

And if you’re staring down the end of summer (or the end of the weekend) with a mix of excitement and resistance?

 You’re not alone.
You’re just human.
And the week ahead is still yours to lead.

So, as always...

Go be great.

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