Today was “Blue Monday.” It is not a real thing and was created by a travel company to sell more trips but it can feel true. By mid-January, the New Year may be losing some of its shine. Here are 10 suggestions to get back the optimistic feelings most of us had on January 1.
Set up a self-care space. Set out a space in your home for you to retreat to when things become too much. This may be a bathtub with salts, candles and a good book (we recommend the novel Scandalous Women) at the ready. This may be a bedside table with your gratitude journal and a pen. It might be an area in your kitchen with decaf teas. Set it up today so that some of those self-care New Year’s practices are at your fingertips.
Be kind to a stranger. I told a passerby her coat looked nice today. She seemed happy and I felt better. It’s an easy way to elevate your energy.
Write down three things you’ve done well so far this year. It can be small. You are still drinking more water. You’ve let go of perfection. You were kind to someone. You didn’t lose it on the customer service chat bot that was less than helpful. Success is built from a zillion small steps so celebrate every one. This is your year even if you haven’t made some massive move only 21 days in.
Put on something nice. Yes, it’s cold AF in the northern hemisphere and dry cleaning is expensive but please put on something a little nice. I live in pretty basic uniforms so accessories are key. Bag charms are pretty zeitgeisty and a fun way to add some sparkle to your day.
Go to bed early. If you live in my part of the world, it’s pitch black early. Take advantage of it and get yourself to bed. Have a bath. Get on your cozy jammies. Bring a book and your journal into bed. Your body and brain will thank you in the morning.
Make a weekly plan for fun. Book a coffee with a friend. Plan to see a movie or go to a gallery. You can do this solo or with a friend but make sure it’s something you want to do.
Clean out one drawer or small area. Clutter can make your energy feel stuck. Tidy your desk. Start to pull your taxes together. Get rid of expired medications or salad dressings. Clean out your makeup. Having a tidy space brings about a sense of calm and control.
Try a new playlist. If you use Spotify or a similar music service during the day, try a new playlist. Music is a powerful tool but we tend to get into a rut. Try some new music to energize yourself.
Do your skincare routine. A lot of us have invested in skincare, but we don’t take the time to use it. Use that toner. Apply that mask. Use the cuticle cream and the gloves at bedtime. Pampering yourself is a good way to reset your energy.
Walk away from negativity. Just as you might be struggling with your resolutions at this time of year, others are struggling with theirs too. Don’t let negative Nellies harsh your buzz or convince you that this year is going to be terrible. Listen to a motivational podcast or read an inspiring book. Protect your peace and reinforce the good habits you are forming.
Purse charms are a fun accessory!
We love you.
Xx