Combatting Blue Monday!

“Blue Monday” refers to a concept that is often considered the most depressing day of the year. It is typically associated with the third Monday of January.

Did you know?

The idea of ‘Blue Monday’ was first publicised as part of a marketing campaign by a travel company in 2005, claiming to have calculated the date using a formula that takes into account various factors such as weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing New Year’s resolutions, low motivational levels, and the feeling of a need to take action.

The impact of Blue Monday on workforces

Unfortunately, the notion of Blue Monday could contribute to a self-fulfilling prophecy. If employees believe that this day will be particularly challenging or depressing, it may influence their mindset and mood. Employers might observe lower motivation, decreased productivity, and an increase in absenteeism or tardiness on or around this date.

Tips for overcoming the Monday Blues…

To address any potential impact on the workforce, organisations can take proactive steps to boost employee morale and well-being on this particular day. Ideas could include…

  1. Share positive and motivational messages with employees.
  2. Organise a team-building activity such as a team lunch, games, or collaborative projects that bring employees together.
  3. Provide healthy snacks or offer a free starbucks coffee.
  4. Consider allowing more flexible work arrangements on this day, such as remote work options or adjusted work hours.
  5. Remind employees to take breaks and recharge throughout the day. Go for a short walk or meditate.
  6. Brighten up common areas, introduce plants, open up any curtains or blinds to bring in natural lighting.

Resources for boosting employee morale

Workplace Wellbeing Professional and….Workplace Wellbeing!

Below is some expert advice on why fostering a positive working culture will do wonders for your organisation, alongside tips on how to achieve it:

Joanne Swann, Content Manager, WorkWellPro
Editor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional | Website | + posts

Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.

Share

Latest News

Latest Analysis

Related Articles

Phil Williams: Why Diversity Efforts Fall Flat Without Belonging

Too many organisations simply hire for diversity whilst failing to also build an environment where people feel valued, heard, and empowered.

Stuck in Traffic: Brits Spend Nearly Two Years Commuting

British people are spending an average of 613 days — almost two years — of their lives getting to and from work.

Hybrid Working ‘Enhances Employee Wellbeing and Productivity’

Despite the benefits, some firms want a return to full-time office work, raising questions about the future of workplace flexibility.​

Cost-of-Living Anxiety Still High Among UK Employees, Report Reveals

Nearly half of British workers would not confide in their employer about their financial struggles, research shows.