What does the start of a new year mean to you?
Some people want to focus on eating healthier and doing more exercise (this is me). For other people they want to start being more mindful and so they are starting a mindfulness course (I'm doing this too), and for others this is the time when they want to start looking for a new job/career, mend bridges and also take steps towards their dreams.
At the start of a new year some people make resolutions. Some people make a promise to change a bad habit, others make a promise to develop a positive habit. People share their New Years resolutions with family and friends in order to keep on track and stick to them.
Making New Years Resolutions and setting goals for yourself.
It’s best to set achievable small goals that you can accomplish, not big goals that feel too hard to reach. By planning small goals doesn’t mean you are not capable of achieving bigger ones, but its best to leave yourself room to improve rather than setting yourself a goal which you could potentially fail to reach.
January can be a difficult month for people. Some people struggle with additional financial pressures after Christmas, some feel that their clothes have got tighter and others feel down because the weather is cold. For some people these feelings can lead to depression.
Tips for beating the January blues
1) Do something new
Focus on changing one thing to improve your mood. For example, join an art class, take a break from social media and/or monitor your social media use, walk to work instead of driving.
2) Exercise
Exercise can have a positive effect on your mood. How about going for a run or a walk either on your own or with a friend? Are there any exercise classes you could get involved with? How about walking short distances instead of getting into the car, using the stairs instead of escalators/lift.
Combine physical exercise into your daily routine and your mental health will thank you for it!
3) Stress
Stress contributes to poor mental health. If your work is causing you stress, maybe it’s time for a change. If your relationships are causing you more stress and anxiety than fulfilment then maybe you need to talk to your friends or family about it. If you don’t feel you can talk to your friends or family about it, how about talking to a counsellor about how you feel?
4) Book something to look forward to
Book a short break away and have something that you and your family can look forward to.
5) Set aside “You time”
It is very important to have some time for yourself. Prioritise time in the week just for you. Be kind to yourself!!!
If you are struggling with mental health, self-esteem or other issues, you can share your problems with a counsellor, this could be one of the most positive things you can do for yourself in 2019 which will help you feel more grounded, stable and happy. Early intervention leads to a quicker recovery!!! Please feel free to give me a call in total confidence on: 07958 365730 and you can also view my website at: www.melaniesanderstherapy.co.uk