All the festivities are over, New Year resolutions are already a thing of the past, the weather is cold, damp and dark, and the bills have started to come in thick and fast…it can only mean one thing - Blue Monday is upon us.  *Cue doom and gloom music*

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So how can you get your mojo back and avoid the January work blues?  

Celebrate the past year

The start of a new year is a great time to reflect on your success.  Think back over the past year and look at your achievements - both big and small.  I bet you’re surprised how much you actually did achieve!  Looking back and reflecting can help you beat the January work blues - it can renew your motivation, increase your confidence and inspire you to think about what you want from this year and what you want to achieve next.

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Evaluate what you want and how you’ll get it

Consider if your role is making you happy and if you are fulfilled. Are you excited about what’s on the horizon for you this year work-wise?  If the answer is no, are there any projects you can get involved in? Are you looking at what training and new skills your current company can give you?  It’s always worth checking that your expectations are realistic - wanting to be CEO by the end of the year may be a step too far, think about what you want to realistically achieve and then plan your route on how to get there.

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Look after yourself!

Working from home does have its benefits but it can also be isolating, which doesn’t help the January work blues.  Make sure you schedule regular check-ins and catch-ups with your colleagues and include time to focus on things that aren’t necessarily work related.  Take breaks away from your computer screen and even if it is dark, wet and cold, try to get outside to stretch your legs and take in some fresh air.  

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Do you need to make a bigger change?

Sometimes, after reflecting, it may be that a new job in a new environment is needed.  This can be exciting!  But before you start to look for something new, make sure you know exactly what you want, what you don’t want, and where (if at all) you’ll compromise. Research all companies before applying and through any interview process, ask questions that will uncover if the company and role can truly offer what you are looking for.  

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Finally, if the January blues drag on a little too long, talk to someone.  Whether through work, via an Employee Assistance Programme or Mental Health First Aider, or outside of work by speaking with a medical professional or simply your family and friends - talking about a problem is the first step to solving it.

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