Feature Article

New Year's Blues
 

E. Carol Webster, Ph.D. 
Copyright ©  2011
 

Greeting the New Year with a smile? Don’t sweat it if your answer is “No!” Like many, you may not be pleased with the way last year ended, so may not be feeling too hopeful about what lies ahead. But don’t get discouraged and let the blues bog you down. Do things differently this year!

 Don’t Dwell on Mistakes

It’s important to identify missteps and poor judgments, but don’t dwell on them. Evaluate poor decisions and the steps to take so that you don’t repeat these mistakes. Enlist the help of your support network if you need a little extra “conscience” and problem-solving to stay on track. Then stop beating yourself up. No good will come of it and the negativity will only drain you of the energy and fresh perspectives you need to make better decisions this year.

 Set Realistic Goals

Most people feel bummed out about the old year because they had grand plans that fizzled and failed. Be realistic this year. Take baby steps if you see that your previous plans were too ambitious – especially in an economy that is still struggling. And take stock of how those around you are doing. The point is not to be competitive with them necessarily, but rather to assess the strategies that are – or are not – working for them too. For example, this may not be a great time to plan on that big promotion if no one else in the company is moving up.

 Mind Your Mood

Keep watch on how you’re feeling and don’t let your mood fall into a slump. Some days this may be hard, but focus on the things that are working well and let yourself be happy about even the smallest accomplishments. It sounds corny, but it is true that positive thoughts and attitudes foster improved mood so force yourself to remain as upbeat as you can. And surround yourself with others who are happy and positive too. The New Year is a good time to kick whiners, complainers, and other toxic people to the curb.

 Usher in the New Year with positive anticipation and hopefulness. There’s no guarantee that this year will be better than the last, but vow to do things differently and keep your mood as optimistic as you can until your success begins to change.