Yesterday was Blue Monday. It may have been the most depressing day in history according to Dr. Cliff Arnall, a psychologist in Britain. Arnall has mathematically pinpointed Jan. 19 as the most depressing day of the year, based on factors including the weather, holiday bills and abandoned resolutions. But this year, he factored in job security fears and economic collapse. “(This was) potentially the most depressing Blue Monday we have had,” Arnall said.
Today, we can officially say we survived and what’s more we are experiencing some pretty exciting history. With the inauguration of Barack Obama, America’s first black president, many are hopeful for the change that will accompany this. Just the mere energy of hope is profound, it is like electricity running through the airwaves.
On a personal level, focus on change. Forget resolutions, instead, think about one small change you have made or can make starting today. For instance, instead of worrying about losing 50 pounds, what if you slowed down your eating? That’s right, place your utensil down between bites and be aware of chewing your food. Instead of paying off all of your debt, what if you made one small change in your daily spending habits and placed that money in a separate account, or even a piggy bank! One small step at a time.
Just for today, smile at a stranger. Commit a random act of kindness. Think a good thought about a co-worker. Take a moment today to breath deeply. Close your eyes and imagine your world a safe and happy place. See yourself smiling and hear your own laughter. Then at the end of the day, notice if you don’t feel just a teeny bit better.
