As many of you already know, Monday 21st January was said to be one of the most depressing days of the year, that’s right, Blue Monday. First originated from the holiday company Sky Travel, this day of gloom began as a publicity campaign, however it then gained popularity and stuck. Due to many factors some being the weather, piling up bills, dark mornings and dark evenings, many are said to feel down on that day, you may have even felt it yourself. Although, is January really blue? 

Of course, the misery begins with many people’s morning routine; waking up, going to work in the dark, the cold wind whipping your face, possibly fighting against driving rain, to me this doesn’t seem the most appealing way to travel (although most have no choice), not to mention repeating it all over again on the journey home! Post-Christmas is also a big issue, after the trees, turkey and other treats, returning to normal lifestyle seems rather boring and depressing, along with the fact that many are out of pocket due to the frequent purchasing that goes alongside the festive period. Despite the fact we all promised ourselves those classic new year’s resolutions: eat healthier, stop watching Netflix and start work harder, January is the month when many people realise they have already failed, and as a result of this, they are plunged further into a pit of blues and low motivation. The wait until summer seems long, and everyone is craving Vitamin D, so it’s no surprise that most holidays are booked in January, there appears to be nothing else to look forward to! But what if we changed our outlook and tried to see this month in a more positive light. 

After all, January is the one month where we have a second chance, everything starts again, a new page and a fresh attempt! Many have tried new experiences, for example ‘Dry January’ and ‘Veganuary’ these potentially improving health and having an overall positive impact on our lives. Although the hours seem long and the weather seems cold, this means you can shove on a baggy jumper and cosy up with some hot chocolate; who doesn’t love that! And despite the seemingly dark and depressing evenings, it is beginning to get lighter, even if it is a few minutes per day. As said by a local pensioner: ‘January means the start of a new year, and in regard to Blue Monday, you’ve just got to be positive! I have lots to look forward to which get me through the darker days’. We need to learn to look on the bright side of life, so why not trade in Blue January for a positive alternative, see how it goes, after all, January is all for trying something new...