Its dark all the time, our resolutions are well and truly broken and we can’t remember the last time we got paid… 'Blue Monday', the third Monday in January and (according to some reports) most depressing day of the year is looming. This year we are determined not to let it beat us!
But how do you swerve those feelings of low mood when there’s no Christmas chocolate left and it’s raining outside? Here are just five simple ways to turn your day around…
1.Plan your playlist
Seems simple but planning a playlist of your favourite uplifting songs for your morning commute can really set the tone for the day. Whether you’re belting out a number from a musical in your car or rocking out with the worlds smallest air guitar on the train, music can help put that spring in your step before you’ve even turned your computer on.
2.Have something to look forward to
Having something that you are excited about can keep you going throughout the day/ week. It could be something as small as cooking your favourite meal, meeting a friend for coffee or bigger plans like planning a trip or holiday. Whatever it is, just make sure that it will motivate you in a positive way.
3.Ensure you’re getting enough Zzz’s
The quality of your sleep can hugely impact your mood in the morning. Too little can make you feel sluggish, irritable and reluctant to get out of bed. Removing distractions such as devices and electronics from your bedroom can help you to shut off and provides a better chance of waking up feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.
4.Tidy your desk
Clean desk, clean mind! If your desk has dirty mugs, piles of work and crumbs in the keyboard, it’s probably time to tidy up. Getting a grip on your work space can make you feel more in control of the actual work in hand. And if you don’t have a desk, have a declutter of your desktop or mobile phone. Surely you don’t use all of those apps?
5.Random acts of kindness
It might seem like an odd thing to suggest when talking about your own well-being but did you know that there are scientifically proven benefits to being kind? Like most medical antidepressants, kindness stimulates the production of serotonin. This feel-good chemical heals your wounds, calms you down and makes you happy! What’s not to love? It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture – something as simple as taking out your neighbours bin when they’ve forgotten it's bin day or writing someone a positive sticky note works!
We hope this helps you to have the best ‘Blue Monday’ (or any Monday) ever! Let us know how you plan on beating Blue Monday on our LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter post.
