5 Tips to Beat Blue Monday.
Blue Monday, also known as the “saddest day of the year,” hits on the third Monday of January. If you’ve ever felt like the universe decided to throw all the challenges your way on this particular day — you’re not alone. The holidays are over, your New Year’s resolutions are already gathering dust, and it’s cold enough to make you consider hibernation. But don’t worry — there are ways to fight back against the Monday blues. Here are five tips to survive and even thrive on Blue Monday with a side of humour.
1. Get moving with some exercise (even if you’re not in the mood)
Look, I get it. You’ve spent the last few days in a Netflix binge-induced haze, so the thought of moving your body probably sounds like something out of a horror movie. But here’s the thing: exercise is scientifically proven to boost your mood. Yes, even that first, awkward stretch that feels like you’re trying to fold yourself into a pretzel. Get moving, and before you know it, those endorphins will kick in and you’ll feel like a new person. Maybe not super new — more like “I’m definitely not a couch potato anymore.”
Pro Tip: If you can’t be bothered to go to the gym, try walking around your house with purpose. Tell yourself you’re “investigating” your living room, and call it “home circuit training.” It counts.
2. Practice gratitude (give a little thanks for coffee)
When life gives you Blue Monday, sometimes the only thing you’re thankful for is your favourite mug and the first sip of coffee that keeps you from face-planting into your keyboard. But hey, gratitude is key! Take a moment to list a few things you’re grateful for. They can be big things like your family, or small things like not having to do laundry today (you’re welcome, future you). Gratitude helps shift your brain from “I’m going to crawl back into bed forever” to “Okay, I can do this… maybe.”
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling really generous, add a thank-you note for the fact that it’s socially acceptable to wear sweatpants to work. Every little bit helps.
3. Call a friend (or text them meme-worthy thoughts)
Blue Monday is a great time to reach out to someone — not just because you need emotional support, but because your friend probably feels just as miserable as you do. A shared complaint about the cold weather, post-holiday chaos, or questionable life choices might just lift your spirits. Bonus points if you send them a meme or two that perfectly captures your mood. Laughter really is the best medicine, especially when it’s delivered in meme form.
Pro Tip: Send your friend a text with an emoji that perfectly expresses how you feel — and let them know you’re there for them, unless they’re doing real work, in which case, go ahead and distract them with a cat video.
4. Eat like you love yourself (or at least like you don’t want to cry)
It’s tempting to drown your sorrows in a tub of ice cream or an entire pizza, but hear us out: You can comfort yourself with food, but make it food that will actually make you feel better in the long run. Think fruits, veggies, and the ever-glorious mood-boosting power of dark chocolate. It’s like eating a tiny piece of joy (without the guilt). Plus, let’s be real, you could use the energy to tackle that pile of laundry you’ve been avoiding.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to hydrate. If your coffee mug is glued to your hand, balance it out with some water. The fact that you’re still alive by 3 p.m. will thank you.
5. Set a tiny goal (baby steps, my friend)
Ever been so overwhelmed by your to-do list that you’ve considered throwing the whole thing into the bin? Today’s the day to tackle that by setting a super tiny goal. How tiny? Think of something so small that even your procrastination skills can’t ruin it. Like organising your desk… for 10 minutes. Or responding to one email that’s been lingering in your inbox since 2023. When you crush a mini goal, it gives you a sense of accomplishment. It’s like actually finishing a puzzle after leaving it on the coffee table for three months. Look at you, adulting!
Pro Tip: Make your goal so small it feels like you’re cheating the system. Write “Take a deep breath” on your to-do list. When you cross it off, you’ll feel like a productivity guru.
Blue Monday doesn’t have to be the worst day of the year — with a little humour, a lot of self-care, and perhaps a side of dark chocolate, you can turn it around. Whether you choose to exercise, laugh it off, or just get through one tiny task at a time, the key is to not let the day drag you down. And if all else fails, remember that it’s only 24 hours and tomorrow is a whole new day. That’s something to look forward to, right?
Sending smiles,
Sarah 💛
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