Blue Monday?

I’ve never heard of the term ‘Blue Monday’ before.  But this morning, that’s all I was hearing about. Blue Monday is supposedly the most depressing day of the year.  According to Wikipedia, the day was ‘calculated’ based on the following: “weather conditions, debt level (the difference between debt accumulated and our ability to pay), time since Christmas, time since failing our new year’s resolutions, low motivational levels and feeling of a need to take action.”

Here’s what I think of that:

Weather conditions – I’m the first one to complain of the cold, so saying anything here would be hypocritical to say the least.  However, why don’t we try to complain less and be thankful to experience 4 seasons.  Imagine the child who would give anything to witness a snowfall… Ok I know I’m reaching a bit here, because I think this is the one I struggle with the most, but never to the point where it gets me down.  Besides, what else are we going to talk about as Canadians?  LOL.
Debt level – Why don’t we spend within our means so we don’t have to go into debt.  Needs vs. wants that’s what is boils down to.  Trust me, sometimes I think I’d rather eat Ramen noodles for a week to save for that fabulous new purse or shoes! But really, alas, I have a family and they don’t fancy Ramen noodles as much as I do.  On a more serious note, I ask myself, do I REALLY need another pair of shoes or a new purse?
Time since Christmas – Let’s start a countdown to Christmas!  Only 337 days left to go….woot woot! 337 days to convince your family and friends that this Christmas, you’ll focus less on the perfect gift and try experience the true joy of the season by doing something really personal and from the heart. If it costs money great, but don’t feel obligated to go all out.
Time since failing our new year’s resolutions – If you read this article and this post, chances are this won’t be an issue. Pick one word and make that your focus for the year.
Low motivational levels – First thing I’d propose is watch those who you surround yourself with.  Find friends with like minded goals.  Keeping each other motivated will be something that you automatically do.  Take stock of the relationships around you.  Nurture those that nurture you and weed out the ones that don’t. Positivity encourages positivity…
Feeling of a need to take action – Well…that’s simple.  Share this post ;).  Seriously speaking though, volunteer somewhere, visit a friend, spend time with kids – their joy is often so infectious that will rub off on you.

I propose we rename today to ‘Sparkle Monday’.

Cheers to Sparkle Monday!
T