As we navigate the tail end of winter, it's common to feel a bit down due to the lack of sunlight, waning motivation for New Year's resolutions, and a general need for positive energy. Here's a blend of insights from your very own, seasonally depressed hairdresser, to tackle these challenges, find reasons to leave the house, discover new adventures, and stay steadfast in your goals. Personally tried and tested on yours truly.
Battling Winter Woes and Resolution Fatigue
1. Understanding Resolution Statistics:Â A study from Discover Happy Habits reveals that only 9% of Americans feel they are successful in keeping their New Year's resolutions. The most popular resolutions include being healthier, saving money, and exercising more. However, failure often comes from setting unrealistic goals or not tracking progress. I don't know about you but I love a good planner, and not of the digital type. Studies also show that if you write down your goals you're way more likely to remember them and stick to them.
2. Embracing February Events in Chicago:Â Time Out Chicago lists a plethora of activities in February that can help your clients stay active and engaged. From the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade to the Chicago Auto Show, these events offer opportunities to socialize, explore new interests, and break the monotony of winter.
3. Five Steps to Mental Wellbeing:Â The NHS suggests practical steps for improving mental health, such as connecting with others, being physically active, learning new skills, giving to others, and practicing mindfulness. These steps can help in creating a sense of belonging, boosting self-esteem, and maintaining a positive outlook.
Tips for Staying Motivated and Social
1. Set Realistic Goals:Â Encourage yourself to set achievable goals and track their progress. This can help maintain motivation and a sense of accomplishment. See above planners. I build mine personally.
2. Get Social and Active:Â Suggest attending local events or joining community groups. You'll likely hear all about it at your next haircut, but Sean and I joined a new MEETUP for people learning to invest! It was so fun! There was a board game related to the learning, in alignment with our goals, opened up doors to networking with others, and we just laughed. If you have ever done one, I highly recommend it. Some of my closest friends were made here.
3. Learn and Grow:Â Encourage trying new hobbies or learning new skills, which can be a great way to break the routine and stimulate the mind. I don't know about you but I no longer keep my phone next to the bed. And I am practicing the art of reading 10 pages of literature a day. Plus, I have taken up old hobbies that have been left to the sidelines after March of 2020. It doesn't always have to be new.... sometime revisiting old passions can be really helpful. In my case I really loved the art of preserving and fermenting food.
4. Practice Kindness and Mindfulness:Â Acts of kindness and mindfulness exercises can significantly improve mental wellbeing, creating a sense of purpose and self-worth. Here is a great book I am currently reading called the KINDNESS CHALLENGE: 30 Days to Improve any Relationship.
By understanding the challenges of this season and taking proactive steps, it's my goal for all of us, including you to overcome the winter blues, stay true to your resolutions, and find joy in everyday activities. Embrace the vibrant community events in Chicago, set realistic goals, and engage in activities that promote mental wellbeing and hopefully we can get you situated when spring arrives, and we can finally walk the lakefront once again. See you soon!
Dana