The Bangles were really onto something when they wrote their hit "Manic Monday." Everyone enjoys relaxation, escape and some enjoy worship on Sunday.

And then, the monster of Monday makes its strike, attempting to take us down and pull us further behind than we may be, or cause us to get behind if we are not already.

Remember all that productivity you probably did not experience over the weekend? Yes, Monday remembers that too. The day is chasing you, waiting to catch your tail. So, we are going to stay a step ahead. Really, keep up, like the way you said you were going to last week, but neglected to do so for the 94 time in a row.

I previously wrote an article about Sunday Afternoon Regret. Please don't let it creep into your Monday afternoon. Monday is really the beginning of the week. You begin work, and another span of five days at school or in the workplace. Beginnings are the key to setting yourself up for success. They are the gateway to positive outcomes and growth. The way to begin your days and weeks is up to you, but you need to make sure it works in a way that gets you moving. You know, working and productivity feels good, and if it doesn't, you probably are not doing it right.

Depending on who you are, you may choose to listen to the words of Cicero, "Omnium rerum principia parva sunt," translated as, "The beginnings of all things are small." Perhaps you may listen to the conventional wisdom of " When you start, you're already halfway there." It honestly does not matter what drives you to begin, but the fact remains that you can not finish until you start. Think of the sweet relief of completion, and the deep breath of relaxation you can take when you submit your work.

Lots of folks make New Year's resolutions, and not a lot of folks really meet them all, if any. It is a harsh truth. This week, meet your New Week's Resolutions. Keep living in smaller increments, and suddenly it seems as though you have more experiences, opportunities, and good times.

I find the satisfaction of many smaller victories to be just as wonderful as larger ones. The smaller goals, and the smaller victories, lead to your larger goals. Taking each day, week, and month step by step allows us to get a grasp on sights and objectives that are more within our reach. Climbing a ladder requires moving up each step. Looking at the top from the ground may seem intimidating, so just look at the next step. And that first step that is right off the ground is what you are going to take today. Or maybe you were halfway up it last week, and you are now looking at step 16 out of 30.

Remember, Monday is not just a day of the week. It is a beginning. There is a Monday to your life, your pursuits, and your goals. Happy climbing, everyone!