Blue Monday

Scientifically proven as the most depressing day of the year, 18 January is more commonly known as Blue Monday. The official date was mathematically calculated by Dr. Cliff Arnall, a researcher at Cardiff University. The formula takes into account six factors: weather conditions, debt level and our ability to pay that debt, time elapsed since Christmas, time elapsed since failing our New Year’s resolutions our general seasonal motivational levels, and our need to take action and to have something to look forward to.

Gillian Brown (37), the MD of New-U Coaching, UK’s leading coaching and leadership development organisation, gives her top tips on coping with the most depressing day of 2010. 

Re-focus and re-set: Many of us have already given up on our New Year’s resolutions and this lack of willpower can make us feel depressed. So re-set and re-focus your goals: make a promise to yourself, rather than a resolution, as it is rare that we break a promise to ourselves. Pick one thing that you want to achieve in 2010 and take the pressure off by making this something you would like to do, rather than something you must do. This could be something business or personal related - something creative or physical will work wonders.

Change your routine: Doing the same thing day in, day out can become frustrating and mundane, especially after all the excitement and fun of the festive season. Making a small change to your routine can make a big difference – try travelling an alternative route to work, do something different at lunchtime, change your shade of lipstick, buy your coffee from a different shop – others may not notice any difference, but you will.

Freshen up: Despite the bad weather, getting out into the fresh air will blow away the cobwebs and refresh your system. Get on the bus a few stops later or park the car further away from work. This will give you a little bit of time to yourself, a chance to reflect and recharge your batteries, while simultaneously working off some of that Christmas excess.  Also good for your carbon foot print!

D-Day: Make sure you do something that will make you smile. Meet a friend for lunch or treat yourself to a little something new. Make the day especially nice by getting in touch with someone you haven’t seen for ages, as thinking about someone else always helps you forget your own problems. And phoning them rather than email will add a personal touch that will make you both feel good.

For more information on New-U Coaching visit www.newucoaching.co.uk

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For further information contact

Laura Adamson

3x1 Public Relations

0131 225 7700/ ladamson@3x1.com