Blue Monday: How will I Counteract This Day?

The third Monday of January, often referred to as "Blue Monday," has become associated with feelings of post-holiday gloom. While it is believed that the term was originally coined as a marketing strategy by travel agencies to encourage holiday bookings, it resonates with many people for good reason.

After the warmth, happiness and celebration of Christmas—filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, gift exchanges, and social outings—January can feel like a stark contrast. The bright lights and cheerful atmosphere of the holidays are replaced by quieter , more subdued homes, as children return to school or work and the reality of overspending begins to sink in.

Adding to this, the typical January weather—cold, dark, wet, and dreary—can make the month feel particularly challenging, despite the small but welcome stretch in daylight. It's no wonder that many people experience a dip in mood during this time.

To counteract Blue Monday and the January blues, it’s important to focus on small, positive actions that bring joy, connection, and motivation back into our daily lives. Whether it’s setting new goals, engaging in activities that uplift you, or simply reaching out to loved ones, taking proactive steps can help brighten even the dullest days.

How will you make this Blue Monday a little brighter?

Here’s a quick outline of some suggested actions to tackle two of the more common concerns that tend to arise at this time of year: financial worries and emotional wellbeing.

1. Financial Worries

   
   

   Addressing financial concerns can involve setting a specific daily budget for a defined period, such as seven-fourteen days. Reviewing spending each evening, noting unexpected expenses, and reflecting on their necessity can provide valuable insights and control over finances. Decluttering wardrobes, including clothes, shoes, and bags, can also contribute to financial wellbeing and have a positive effect on your overall health. Items no longer in use can be sold to generate extra cash or donated to charity if they don’t sell. This approach not only alleviates financial pressure but also reduces clutter, promotes a sense of order, and supports the circular economy—a sustainable and responsible lifestyle choice.

2. Emotional Wellbeing

Managing emotional wellbeing can involve daily journaling, providing a private space to process and understand negative emotions and feelings. This practice allows for better articulation of emotions, should there be a need to share them later.

Incorporating moments of joy into each day is another effective strategy. Activities such as listening to uplifting podcasts, watching entertaining shows, or spending time with people who inspire laughter can help maintain a positive outlook. Avoiding negative news and conversations that drain energy is equally important, while actively seeking out sources of positivity and encouragement can further enhance emotional resilience.

Finally, it is important to remember that seeking support when needed is a sign of strength. There is no need to wait until challenges feel overwhelming before reaching out for help.

By addressing these areas with proactive and thoughtful strategies, it is possible to make this Blue Monday—and the rest of January—a little brighter and more manageable.

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