We’ve all been there—the last night of the weekend, with work looming on Monday (or Tuesday, in my case), and the anxiety sets in. The calls to clients that need to be made, the deadlines that demand progress, and the never-ending to-do list. Tomorrow is especially hectic: back-to-school night right after work, followed by a class I’m taking, knowing full well that once the morning starts, it will be non-stop until I finally put my daughter to bed at 8:30 p.m. And that’s not even counting the countless small tasks that need to be managed, delegated, and kept on time and within budget. It’s not that I don’t enjoy what I do—it’s just that this is what a typical “night before work” can feel like for many of us, myself included.

So, the real question is: What can we do about it? How can we avoid letting an entire weekend day be consumed by thoughts of all the things we need to do and all the ways we might fall short?

For me, it comes down to two things: Control and Presence.

First, I ask myself: What is within my control?

And then: What is most important right now?

These questions help ground me. They allow me to focus on what I can manage today and tomorrow, and to prioritize what truly matters in the moment. Tomorrow, I can control my to-do list and my morning preparation. I’ll start with the most critical tasks and create a realistic plan for the day. Tonight, I can control how I prepare for my class and ensure everything is ready for tomorrow’s school day and workday—like prepping lunches, picking out clothes, tidying the house, and organizing my workspace. Most importantly, I can choose to savor these last few hours of the weekend with my family.

So, when the anxiety creeps in tonight, take a few deep breaths. Remember that tomorrow you’ll tackle each task as it comes. For now, focus on what matters most in this moment.

As I write this, my daughter and I have just started a movie. We’re sitting together, enjoying dinner, and I trust that I’ll handle whatever challenges tomorrow brings.