Why Mondays Should be Optional

Mondays are dreaded by everyone, but do they have to be? In this thought piece, I talk about why making Mondays optional might just be the key to a better, more balanced life.

Monday’s have always been like a silent villain during the week, quietly stealing away our joy and energy. It’s the day that rudely interrupts the peace and calm of the weekend with a host of deadlines and alarms that suddenly need attention. And for what reason? To prove that we’re functioning members of society? Surely there must be another way to prove that instead of subjecting ourselves to Monday’s dread. 

Now, consider this entirely logical solution: making Mondays optional. For those of you who can get right into it at the start of the week—good for you. You can keep your Monday. But for those who don’t, imagine the gift of having a longer weekend. Tuesdays would become the new Monday, but with way less pressure because of the extra day to mentally prepare. The world really wouldn’t end if we all shifted our schedules by one day. In fact, people might become more productive. I myself have read enormous amounts of studies on burnout and work-life balance which shows that giving people longer breaks leads to better focus and creativity. By getting rid of mandatory Mondays, we’d create a society that values mental well-being, rather than glorifying exhaustion. 

And think about all the possibilities. Sunday nights would no longer be a countdown to dread; instead, but rather, could stretch on with the same ease as Saturday. We’d start off the week feeling refreshed, with no sense of the usual urgency and resentment. It’s not just a wild idea, it might actually be a necessary step in our approach to work, time, and life.

A Fresh Start: Returning to the American school system.

Stepping back into the American school system after being in the Indian one feels like entering a familiar, yet completely different, world. It's an opportunity to adapt and see how this chapter unfolds.

After four-and-a-half months of what some might call a break but felt more like a gap year, I’m finally stepping back into the American school system from the Indian school system. The shift is quite daunting—moving from a world where success seems to be measured by your exam scores to one where the journey counts as much as the destination. It’s strange to think that after so many months of following my own beat, I need to get back into the rhythm of classes, assignments, and everything that comes with it. 

This transition isn’t just about adjusting to a new curriculum. It’s also about figuring out how to go through this completely different setup without looking like too much of an outsider. The way classes run, the way people are—everything seems so much different. It’s definitely going to be a bit of an adjustment. 

Perhaps there’s something to enjoy in that too. Starting fresh in a new system has its perks—you have the opportunity to reinvent yourself, and old expectations aren’t hanging over your head. It’s new territory, and while it might take a minute to find my footing, I’m just going to see where it leads. 

Lumina: A Look into the Future

Hey there! It's been a minute since my last post, but I'm back! Come along and explore "Lumina," a futuristic city concept I've been thinking about.

Lately, life has been feeling a bit mundane. With nothing particularly exciting happening, I started thinking about a place where life would be easier and more interesting, with innovative technology and sustainable practices. I named this place Lumina, a city that truly is the future of urban living. 

As you approach Lumina, the first thing you’ll notice is its skyline. Towering skyscrapers built with sleek, eco-friendly materials dot the horizon. These buildings aren’t just for the aesthetic—they’re designed with sustainability in mind. The rooftops are filled with greenery, and solar panels glisten in the sunlight, gathering energy to power the city. 

If you walk a bit further, you’ll see buildings with smart glass that adjusts its tint based on the intensity of the sunlight, keeping the interior cool without needing to blast the air conditioning. The off-site construction of these structures allows for easy updates, making sure that they stay modern and up-to-date without needing to rebuild it completely. 

In Lumina, technology effortlessly blends into everyday life, making everything more convenient and efficient. The city is equipped with a strong public Wi-Fi network, making sure you’re always connected, whether you’re at home, in the park, or on the move. 

Public transportation in Lumina is simply a dream come true. Autonomous electric buses glide through the street, communicating directly with smart traffic lights to minimize overcrowding on the road. These buses are always on time, and you can even call one with a tap on your smartphone. At home, you can count on voice-activated assistants to manage everything from lighting to security, while drones handle your grocery deliveries, providing you with all your essentials and making sure you never run out.  

Green spaces are plentiful in Lumina, providing some fresh air in the urban landscape. Urban farms and gardens are scattered throughout the city, contributing to local food production and reducing the need for long distance transportation of goods. 

You can observe the city’s commitment to sustainability in its recycling programs and use of renewable energy. Solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal systems work together to power Lumina, making it a hotspot of environmentally friendly living. Water conservation systems ensure that every drop is used wisely, enabling residents to live sustainably.  

Education in Lumina is designed to prepare students for the future. Schools are equipped with modern technology, and the curricula emphasize the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, care for the environment, and essential life skills. Virtual reality classrooms and AI tutors for extra support ensure that every student has a personalized learning experience. Lifelong learning is encouraged, with community centers offering courses and workshops so that adults can continue to learn new skills. 

However, Lumina isn't just about technology and sustainability—it is also a hub of culture and community. Digital art installations turn public spaces into interactive galleries, and museums and theaters offer experiences that merge the physical and virtual world. Festivals and gatherings that celebrate innovations and the environment bring people together, creating a sense of unity and a shared purpose. 

Community engagement is very important in Lumina. Co-working spaces and community centers are always busy, with spots to work collaboratively and connect with others. Public forums allow residents to take part in decision-making, taking care to  include their considerations in every matter.

Getting around Lumina can be both easy and enjoyable. The city has a range of transportation options that meet every need, whether you prefer electric bikes and efficient public transport, or pedestrian-friendly streets that are perfect for a leisurely walk. Tourists and locals alike can explore everything from vibrant tech hubs to eco-resorts and charming historical districts that merge the old with the new. 

Lumina is more than just a city—it's a glimpse into what our future could be. With its innovative technology, sustainable practices, lively culture, and tight-knit community, it paints a picture of a world where everything just clicks together.