So here we are again. Another January, another slump. It’s to be expected in my life but it still doesn’t make it any easier. I still find myself feeling down and depressed, quick to panic and cry, spending my days just trying to convince myself to do basic things like get dressed and take a shower. The business part of me always thought that having answers would make things easier for me to fight but honestly having the answers doesn’t do much more for me than put a label on how I’m feeling. Which does help honestly, but only a little because at the end of the day I still feel down.
There are a few reasons for my January slump most of them revolving around the post holiday let down so many of us feel. I love the holidays so much and if it was up to me I would want to do a Christmas type celebration every month. Not for the gifts, but for the decorations and time spent with family. Just the overall magical feeling of that time of year. Although I guess if it occurred more often it wouldn’t feel as magical. But anyways, I try to soak up as much love and good cheer as I can throughout the holiday season, spending time with family, baking cookies, looking at Christmas lights, listening to music, watching Hallmark movies, the list goes on and on. Then when it’s over I have a major letdown.
Another factor is the whole new year thing. When we reflect and look towards this new year it feels like a giant reminder that I’m not exactly where I want to be and I don’t even know when I’ll get there. January and the beginning months of the year also bring some dates up that tend to trigger my grief and the feelings associated with that. All this to say January is tough for me and I’m really struggling right now.
So how do I fight it? My current mantra is “the only way out is through.” Sometimes the only way I can fight this is to accept it. In these cases I usually curl up with a good book or a funny show and try to wait for the worst of it to pass. I also make sure I’m checking in with myself and listening to my body, whether that means taking a nap, writing in my journal, or crying to my family I try to do what my body needs. All things that feel so difficult to do but over time make a huge difference.
If you find the new year difficult and are feeling the post holiday letdown too just know that you are not alone. We will all get through this, it may be tough but we can do it. Pick up a good book, surround yourself with love and good food, and keep on fighting.
Until next time. 💚
Oh yes, this has been a struggle for me for yearsbut especially starting menopause. A couple years ago I was so depressed I pretty much stayed in the house at least 1 1/2 weeks straight, not even going into work. Still didn’t do much more than that for 3 weeks. My mom and brother came to the house after my week in a half of not going to work or answering phone calls, text messages and fb messages. The last couple years it seems to start in October, but not as severe, but by the time January comes around I am actually feeling better. Just letting you know that uou are not alone either and you can reach out if you ever need to talk.
I’m so sorry you’ve gone through this! I actually felt it starting in December this year which was new for me so it’s interesting that yours shifted as well. Thank you for sharing and reminding me to give myself the same kindness I give others. I will definitely reach out if/when I need it. 💚
Hey lovely!
That definitely is not a good way to start the year but I totally hear you out as to your reasons why.
Is there something in you that says “love is temporary?” I see that just because of what you wrote how you feel during the holidays.
See, our subconscious holds certain beliefs and memories (even ones you may not be aware of) and keeps projecting them outwards for “your safety”. Until you get through to them and understand them, that is when the true healing begins.
I’m a life coach so if you’d like to reach out, I’d be happy to talk to you. xo
P.s. I have been in that negative loop before as well.
Hi! There’s definitely some deeper rooted stuff that I’m currently working through with my therapist. Thank you though for reaching out. 😊