The Sunday Scaries
- Phil D'Adamo
- Jan 4
- 2 min read
In my coaching work with leaders, the Sunday Scaries show up far more often than people are willing to admit.
I came across this SBS News article this morning and it put a useful name to a feeling I’ve seen, and experienced, many times in executive life: that sense of unease as Monday approaches and the week ahead starts to loom.
Sunday Scaries aren’t necessarily a bad thing. At times, they’re simply the nervous system responding to pressure and responsibility - gearing you up to hit the ground running on Monday.
But when they’re frequent or lingering, and weekends no longer feel like a decent break, they’re rarely about Monday. They’re more likely about misalignment, work overload or a way of working that no longer fits with your values.
Beyond Blue reported in June 2025 that 50% of Australians experienced burnout in the past 12 months. That tells us this isn’t an individual resilience issue, it’s a systemic one.
These feelings are often amplified at the start of a new year. It’s a natural transition point where people reflect more deeply and quietly ask themselves: Is this as good as it gets? What needs to change?
In coaching, persistent Sunday Scaries are a signal. Something to pay attention to and navigate, not ignore. They often point to unsustainable expectations, blurred boundaries, unhealthy workplace cultures, or a drift away from purpose and meaning.
The article suggests practical steps like getting clear on priorities for the new week on the Friday before the weekend. I’d add a few coaching questions for anyone returning to work and sensing unease:
• What can I stop doing?
• What should I start doing?
• What do I need to do more of?
• What do I need to do less of?
Wishing you all the best for 2026.
#SundayScaries #LeadershipWellbeing #ExecutiveCoaching h#Burnout #ChangeLeadership #SelfLeadership #WorkLifeIntegration #NewYearReflection #TheChangeLounge
