Blue Monday
The excitement of Christmas probably now feels like a distant memory as we head back to reality, away from the glittering Christmas lights, presents, house guests and copious amounts of cheeseboards (and food in general!). The month of January brings new possibilities, new goals and also the dreaded ‘January Blues’. January is well known as the month where feelings of sadness, low moods and tiredness decides to creep in and it is even home to the most depressing day of the year. This gloomy day known as ‘Blue Monday’ will soon be trying to get the better of us and this year it falls on Monday, 15th January. Here at CaymanHR we want to help you beat any blues that may come your way and below are our top 5 tips on just how to do that!
1. Talk about it
Let’s be honest here, the thought of returning to ‘normal’ life after all the celebration and excitement can be deflating and for many people saying ‘hello’ again to the dreaded alarm clock is a real shock to the system. It is important to realize that if you are experiencing this feeling, you are not alone. Be patient with yourself and talk to your friends and family who will reassure you that they too wish they could rewind to the festivities where life may have seemed a little more carefree.
2. Finances…think outside the box!
Many businesses will have paid employees early in December due to the Christmas period. Whilst this would have been helpful for many people for purchasing gifts it does mean that pay day for January can feel even further away. Financial worry or guilt can have a negative effect on your mood and can leave you feeling anxious. In order to make that early Christmas paycheck last why not arrange a Teams quiz call or instead of going to a restaurant bring food to friends and enjoy together without having to pay restaurant prices while still remaining social and keeping the blues as bay.
3. Keeping fit and staying active
Perhaps one of the most popular New Year resolutions for people is eating healthier and, after a Christmas of indulgence, many people look to January as the month to reduce their calorie intake and cut down on their mid-week treats or any treats of any kind. A sudden shift and drastic change in your diet can leave you feeling irritable and fatigued. We recommend meal planning to ensure that you are having a well-balanced diet and not denying yourself a treat…everything in moderation!
Research shows that outdoor exercise can have such a positive impact on your mental health and you don’t always have to join the gym to do it! What better place to stay active than strolling along one of the best beaches in the world?
4. New Year’s Resolutions
For many people the New Year is a chance to reinvent themselves by making small commitments to change themselves for the better. However, whilst this may seem like wonderful ideas it is important to remember that change is a working progress and it can be very difficult. There may be instances where you are unable to commit to the changes you have made and that is okay. By becoming too consumed that you may not have achieved your New Year resolutions can make you feel annoyed or upset. Instead try making just a few small habit changes and build on those as you are successful in maintaining them.
5. Be kind
Happiness comes from within and looking after yourself is of the utmost importance. On the days where you are finding it hard not to press that snooze button, be kind to yourself and avoid negative self-talk. Why not make yourself feel good by wearing colourful clothes or listening to that podcast you’ve had on your list and of course a good nights sleep can work wonders!.
We hope that the above helps you feel positive about what the New Year can bring professionally and personally. If CaymanHR can be of any assistance to you please reach out!