For many, the first few months of the year can be a bit rough. Particularly when coming out of a difficult year, the problems faced by individuals could be especially intense. After a year of uncertainty, increased workloads, frozen wages and diminished bonuses, the start of 2010 can seem less than inspiring. Here’s some things you can do to stay on track and beat back the blues.
Get physical
You’ve heard this a million times before, but exercise really is a cure all for many things. It increases your body’s endorphins and endorphins boost your feelings of happiness. If you’re feeling pretty tired and fed up, I know that this can sound irritating. It’s a catch-22 situation, but if you start exercising regularly 3 times a week for just 20 minutes, it will really help. So go for a power walk, jog, join a gym or sports club, take a yoga class, or buy an exercise video. You’ll be the happier for it and better able to deal with whatever life or work throws your way
Go play outside
In the depths of winter it’s easy to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary trips outside, especially if the weather is nasty. However, simply leaving the house or office can have a huge effect on mood. Besides supplying you with a dose of vitamin D, getting outside can break the cycle of monotony indoors and be reinvigorating. Even a brief lunchtime walk can be energizing and spark the creative juices.
Let there be light
If, like me, you live in geographic location that’s stingy on sunny winter days a light box can be your new best friend. I discovered phototherapy several years back after noticing my moods dipping during the rainy winter months. These compact lights can now be found in many drug stores and have come way down in price. They emit an intense light that has an impact on your mood and helps you sleep better.
Play with friends
It’s easy to take a pass on socializing when you’re in a rut. But don’t underestimate the power of friends, family, mentors and co-workers. Who can you turn to when you’re down and need a pick-me-up? Keep a mental list of who you can turn to when you’re down and don’t be afraid to ask for help or encouragement when you need it. Something as simple as a phone call, a chat over coffee
So pick up the phone and go grab a coffee or bite to eat with a friend. You’ll feel better for it.
Time out
If you feel like you’re on a never ending treadmill, taking time out is essential to your personal sustainability. Whether it be a day off, a week away or a weekend, taking time away from work or the regular routine will help reenergize you. So stop the excuses and make the time. Even an hour will help. I’ve yet to hear back from any of my hard driven high performing clients that they’ve regretted time away from the daily churn.
Shake it up
Variety really is the spice of life. Doing the same thing day in and day out can become dull. Fast. Introduce some novel activities that are outside your regular routine. Even a different route to and from work can make a difference. Do this at least once a week. You may have to push yourself but the added novelty will inject extra zip to your life.
Don’t go it alone
If you’re in financial trouble or are feeling quite down, and have been for a while, seek help. Whether it be a friend or professional, actively seeking solutions will help you to feel better right away. You’ll at least garner piece of mind that you’re on the road to making a difference and changing your situation.
If you’re asking the big questions about life or career or want a tightened focus or simply want to feel more energized, give me a call. I’ll help you get clear on what your options are and the way forward.
I’m interested in hearing about your ideas for shaking off the winter doldrums. When the sun is near extinct what do you do to keep your attitude in the positive zone? What do you do to overcome the initial inertia to become active again? What are the activities that give you that extra lift?
