Avoiding January burnout

I thought I’d get my writing started this week, get back into the swing of things. But waking up on Monday morning, I found myself reluctant to get started. I found it energising to return to my clients; much harder to sit down to write.

Beginning the year can feel really hard. Perhaps like me, you’re feeling a little daunted, looking at all the things you have to do. Perhaps you’re feeling stressed and burnt out from last year, and getting started on a new one is the last thing you feel like doing. Perhaps you’re not feeling good about it being January, a cold and quieter month.

To everyone out there dragging themselves into their office this week: I see you. It’s not easy returning to work, whether you love your career or not. This month might feel like it’s stretching ahead, and getting going again might feel tough. 

Let’s focus on taking care of ourselves this month, and avoid that January burnout we might have had in the past.

🌈 Get something with friends in the calendar now:

This is a great thing to do in early Jan, so you have something to look forward to.

By messaging friends to get something in the calendar for a weekend late in January, you have something to look forward to, to give you some warmth in the winter.

🌱 Keep up your wellbeing habits - or start a new tiny habit:

You might feel the urge to reduce what you’re doing - but don’t cut back on the things that replenish you.

So keep up your journalling, your exercise or your cooking habit. This will sustain you through this time, even when it feels like you can’t be bothered.

😴 Rest: Make time to really rest and relax.

This is so important for your mental health. Scroll for only a short time! Then curl up on the couch with a good book or podcast, take a bath, or call a friend.

☺️ Pace yourself:

Perhaps you usually go above and beyond for your boss or your family - but perhaps January is the time to take a break from that. Leave work on time, take breaks where you can, don’t volunteer for things you don’t really love.

Maybe there’s times you can’t say no - but make the most of the times you can. This will maximise your chance to end January feeling balanced and steady, and ready for the next chapter.

Have a think about your own ways of keeping well through draining times. What will help you replenish your resources and take care of yourself? 

If you’re feeling like 2025 is the time for you to work on things with a therapist, you are welcome to book a free 15 minute initial chat, so you can see if I’m the right practitioner for you.

Warmth and wishes, I’ll write again soon 😊

✨April ✨

Cosy Therapy