It’s the third Monday of the month. More commonly known as Blue Monday, it’s popularly known as the saddest day of the year - and with your carpets strewn with empty Roses wrappers, and pine needles turning into a scented paste in the gutters, we can kinda understand why.
But no. Back up a second.
Did you know Blue Monday is a 16-year-old marketing ploy by a travel company? A pretend formula based on time since Christmas, debt, time spent failing New Year’s resolutions, the weather, and a few other factors - essentially, total rubbish.
Don’t get us wrong. We know January is grey and dismal, that those first few weeks back at work are painful. But you don’t have to buy into Blue Monday…
Reasons to be Cheerful
1. There’s a whole new year of possibility ahead of you
You don’t have to sign up for a marathon, or commit to a 100% plant-based diet. There’s 12 months for you to grasp opportunities - 366 days, in fact, since it’s a Leap Year! Don’t think that change isn’t possible, just because it hasn’t happened yet.
2. It’s only going to get warmer and lighter from now on
It might be perpetually drizzling and dark by 3.30pm, but that won’t last. Grit your teeth and wait for days to get longer, the sun to shine brighter, and daffodils start to flower. That’ll cheer you up (plus Easter treats are already stocking supermarket shelves, so must be close!).
3. You can do good for others, by being good to yourself
Doing things for others feels good. But 2020 is the year of self-care, too! Something as small as choosing sustainable suppliers (ahem) can have a positive knock-on effect to others, so whenever you slurp down a cup of Pact Coffee you can know you’re making lives better.
What keeps you looking on the bright side?
A hot bath on a rainy day, breakfast in bed on an early morning - what’s your technique for making the most of things, when life is challenging? Let us know!
