Friday 05-01-2024 - 12:48

Now that Christmas and the festive period is done and dusted for another year, we face a new challenge - January🫣 The month that’s known to feel the longest, coldest, and hardest to get through for many people. Plus, with assignments due and exams coming up, we know you’ll be feeling the academic pressure on top of all that.

But, it doesn’t have to be the miserable month it’s made out to be - there’s loads of easy and simple things you can do that will help lift those spirits and make the most out of the start of a new year.

 

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🫶 Make time for friends & family

The festive season is known as a time of year that everyone comes together and reunites, but who says it has to stop there? Obviously everyone is often busy getting back to work, studying and just managing life in general, but it’s important to still allow time for those you love.

You can incorporate socialising with friends and family into your everyday life - you and your mates could do your weekly shop together, hit the gym with your bestie, or see if your loved ones want to join you on a morning coffee run.

Having connections with those around you can make all the difference and really lift your spirits.

 

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🎟️ Get Involved

We have loads of amazing events coming your way this January, from Big Balls Bingo, to Vision Board Making and Culture Fest.

There’s events for you to socialise and have fun, such as our Roller Disco, and events that are designed to help you figure out what life after uni has in store for you - like The Indie Business Market and Broaden Your Horizons Fair.

There’s something for everyone, so check out what’s on and keep an eye on our socials for more info.

 

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👩‍🍳 Learn a new recipe

We’re not suggesting you have to become the next Gordon Ramsey, but do get yourself on TikTok and find some quick and easy recipes you can try out. There’s nothing better than finding a new comfort meal that you can look forward to each and every time you make it.

 

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💪 Set yourself a challenge

Having a daily task is a great way to get motivated - it gives you something to look forward to each day, makes the month fly by, and brings a sense of achievement and something to be proud of. It doesn’t have to be anything big or crazy, just a little something that you aim to do each day.

Struggling for inspo? Here’s just a few ideas you might want to explore:

+ Have a daily step-goal - even just 5 minutes of fresh air a day is good for your body and soul 🚶‍♀️

+ Learn a new language - this could be as simple as learning one new word a day to get started 🧠

+ Read a book - is there a book that’s always piqued your interest but you’ve never got round to reading? Or maybe this is something completely new? Start with a goal of just one chapter a day 📖

Most importantly, choose something you’re interested in, something you’ll enjoy and look forward to - don’t set a task that you’re going to dread doing each day. And remember it’s meant to be fun, no pressure, just see what you can do and enjoy it.

 

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These are just some ideas you could implement to help fight those January blues, but there’s loads more ideas, activities and events you could try too.

If you’re struggling and want someone to talk to or want to seek professional advice, pop down to The Union - our expert Advice Centre offers professional, judgement-free and confidential support.