The third Monday of every year is known as ‘Blue Monday’.
According to some, it is the most depressing day of the year, to others, it is nonsensical, and say there is no evidence base to support the claim. When you look into the history of 'Blue Monday, it appears that it was originally created as part of a marketing strategy.
Many companies across the country will use ‘Blue Monday’ for their advertising and marketing. No doubt a local news channel will interview some people out in the street and ask them how 'down' or 'blue' they are feeling.
In reality, for most of us, it will just be a standard Monday morning.
We may wake up and feel a little down but it is unlikely to be anything to do with the date. It is more likely to be influenced by how we have slept, what we have had to eat or drink in the last 24hrs, our activity levels, or even the weather.
How did you feel *before* you were told today was a day to feel blue?
We can choose our mood and emotion.
We can choose which mood we take into the day.
We can think of things we are grateful for, choose our priorities for the day, put on some happy tunes and decide we are going to make the best out of what the day brings and seek out the positives.
We could alternatively look for all the things that will confirm why it is ‘Blue Monday’.
This is called 'Confirmation Bias'. We look for all the things that will confirm what we are thinking.
This can be positive or negative.
Which will you choose?
Will you choose all the negative activity that supports the claims of ‘Blue Monday’?
Or
Will you be looking for a positive activity to support that it is nonsensical?
I challenge you to find 10 positive activities/things/thoughts today!
– If you can find more than 10, let me know!
We can do this daily. Not just on a day or awareness week when we are reminded to look after our wellbeing. This is a daily focus.
There will be lots of advice out on 'Blue Monday'. As with all awareness days, it is a great opportunity to bring good mental health into the public arena. Have a look at what is out there and find what works for you.
Here is my contribution to the mix of hints/tips and advice.
Be present. Enjoy the moment, put down your phone, engage and take in what is happening around you.
Where is your focus? Are you focusing on problems or solutions?
What do you need to do differently to achieve your goals?
Who are you surrounding yourself with? Do they fill you with energy or drain you?
What small action could you take, that would make the biggest improvement in your life?
As with any advice, it is just that, find what works best for you.
***
If you would like to find out more, then why not take a look at our range of coaching services and products.
Alternatively, if you would like to find out more about Phoenix Coaching then you can book your free, no-obligation clarity call here.
First published 01/18
Updated: 01/19, 01/20, 01/21,01/22