“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…
- Share positive and motivational messages with employees.
- Organise a team-building activity such as a team lunch, games, or collaborative projects that bring employees together.
- Provide healthy snacks or offer a free starbucks coffee.
- Consider allowing more flexible work arrangements on this day, such as remote work options or adjusted work hours.
- Remind employees to take breaks and recharge throughout the day. Go for a short walk or meditate.
- Brighten up common areas, introduce plants, open up any curtains or blinds to bring in natural lighting.
Resources for boosting employee morale
- Connecteam’s blog provides 15 ways to boost morale among your workforce: https://connecteam.com/boost-employee-morale/
- Teambuilding has offered 19 fun ways to boost morale, including Virtual Team Trivia, Dance Party and Compliment tag! https://teambuilding.com/blog/morale-boosters
- Culture Partners provides a fully downloadable E-Book all about employee fulfilment and the future of workplace culture.
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:
- Dr Lynda Folan: Smart Organisations are Creating Healthier Environments
- Jo Frape: The Interplay of Psychosocial and Psychological Factors – Understanding Individual Wellbeing in Work and Life
- Dr Carolyn Lorian: How Employers Can Foster Positive Workplace Wellbeing
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.
