The aptly titled "Blue Monday" is officially every 3rd Monday in January, but some of us may feel depressed or overly depressed on Monday.
This feeling is often referred to as the “Monday Blues” and is often due to the fact that you have had a very nice weekend, always thinking “it was only weekend”. The fact is, today is Monday and for most of us the work week is starting again. How do you make sure that you start the week today on Monday?
We list 6 tips that will hopefully help you on your way today that will make the working days fly by and before you know it it will already be the weekend.
Go outside
Although the weather may not always be good, it is still important to go outside, especially now that so many of us still work from home.
It's no secret that fresh air during a walk or jog can help us get more energy, improve blood pressure and heart rate, it immune system to strengthen and help us focus. So why not get up early and go out in daylight and start reaping the benefits?
Avoid a crowded agenda on Monday
It's normal to feel overwhelmed when you are inundated with meetings after you come back from a relaxing weekend. If possible, try to avoid scheduling meetings or large tasks on Mondays.
Don't worry about a full schedule by planning ahead for the rest of your working days. If you have a hard time juggling everything, try using time management tools to keep track of your activities and plan events more easily.
Set measurable goals and make your Monday more meaningful
Why would you go through your goals and desired results again this Monday and divide them into smaller, achievable and measurable goals that will make you feel a lot better in the end?
It can even be as simple as going for a walk every day or getting up early every morning and starting the day with a healthier breakfast. Definitely choose goals that you can tick off a list so that you feel motivated to keep going. In these uncertain times, the little things have now become big achievements - so don't feel any different if your goals for this year are less grand than they normally would be. But remember: the sky is the limit and go for it!
Listen to a podcast, playlist or video that uplifts your mood
Did you know that listening to music triggers the brain to realize dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter? Whether it's the complete ABBA collection or the latest Top 40 release you're dancing around the kitchen with, you'll get positive vibes right in your ears with an uplifting playlist from Spotify.
For example, to find peace before going to bed, try a podcast that boosts your mood and helps you relax and fall asleep peacefully.
Do something nice for someone else
Instead of worrying about your growing to-do list, think of ways you can improve someone else's Monday. By doing this, you will distract yourself from your own concerns and also start to feel better about your activities.
Sunday evening is the start of a good week
Go to bed a little earlier this Sunday evening and make sure you get enough sleep so that you wake up rested. Your body will thank you for it. It is important to prepare for sleep with a helpful bedtime routine, such as a warm bath and restraining blue lights which are often broadcast by mobile phones and tablets.
Sources including Forbes (link), Greatist (link), Healthline (link), Pearson (link), PsychologyToday (link)
