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‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ is a workplace trend that aims to alleviate stress and provide a more relaxed beginning to the workweek. With a focus on self-care and work-life balance, this concept is gaining popularity among employees seeking to prioritize their well-being and productivity. Inspired by this concept, Caitlin Winter, an Adelaide-based marketing manager, introduced it to her office, promoting a culture of self-care and mindfulness.
The New Concept
The idea behind ‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ is to create a gentle start to the week, allowing individuals to take the day at their own pace. By embracing this trend, employees can start the week on a positive note, feeling motivated and refreshed. It entails working from home, avoiding meetings, and freeing oneself from the pressure of completing projects. With this approach, employees can tackle tasks while maintaining a sense of calm and avoiding the dreaded ‘Sunday Scaries’ that often overshadow the last day of the weekend.
Benefits for Employees
By implementing ‘Bare Minimum Mondays,’ individuals can benefit from reduced stress levels and an improved work-life balance. They have the freedom to deal with personal responsibilities, such as household chores, grocery shopping, or spending quality time with family. This flexibility also enables parents to engage more actively in their children’s school routines, enhancing work-life integration. Employers who support ‘Bare Minimum Mondays’ demonstrate their commitment to fostering a healthy and happier work environment.
The Perspective of Caitlin Winter
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Marketing manager Caitlin Winter found inspiration in the concept of ‘Bare Minimum Mondays.’ She explained that the concept doesn’t mean sitting in pajamas all day in front of the TV but rather working from home, avoiding scheduling meetings, and creating a more relaxed atmosphere. One of her team members uses the opportunity to drop off and pick up her children from school, which is otherwise challenging during regular weekdays. Winter is now actively spreading the word to embrace the approach in the workplace.