Every January, we hear about Blue Monday the so called “most depressing day of the year.” While research shows it was originally a marketing idea rather than a scientific fact, the truth is that this time of year can feel heavy. For me, it’s not just the dark mornings and cold weather. it’s the pressure I put on myself whether that’s losing weight, improving my health or hitting those year-end targets at work.
I’ve often started the year with big resolutions: eat better, exercise more, stay on top of everything. But when life gets busy, those goals can feel overwhelming. I’ve had moments where I’ve worried about not doing enough at work and at home and that stress can spill into everything else. What’s helped me is learning to take things one step at a time and not beat myself up for not being perfect.
One of the biggest changes I made recently was investing in a walking/running pad. It might sound simple, but it’s been a game-changer for me. Each morning, I start my day with a run sometimes short, sometimes longer but always something. It’s become my way of setting the tone for the day, clearing my head and reminding myself that progress matters more than perfection. I’m building up slowly and my hope for 2026 is to see real changes in my health and fitness and even take part in an organised race. That goal excites me because it’s something just for me a positive challenge that feels achievable.
Accent has played a big part in helping me find this balance and in turn for me to do my job and help our customers. Flexible working has given me space to prioritise my wellbeing whether that’s taking a walk at lunchtime or making time for family without feeling guilty. I’ve also found that talking openly about mental health and wellbeing, through becoming MHFA (Mental Health First Aider), has made a huge difference. It reminded me that wellbeing isn’t just physical health or productivity it’s about feeling supported and connected.
If you’re reading this and feeling the weight of expectations whether it’s health goals or work targets, please know you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help and to take small steps. Accent offers MHFA-trained colleagues and wellbeing resources, and the fantastic confidential staff line.
This January, instead of focusing on “Blue Monday,” let’s focus on what lifts us up connection, kindness and self-care. Wellbeing isn’t about ticking boxes it’s about finding balance and giving yourself permission to breathe. For me, that means starting each day with a run, setting realistic goals and remembering that progress no matter how small is worth celebrating.
Caroline Graham is a Housing Partner (in the North East) at Accent Housing. Caroline is also a Wellbeing Champion having recently completed her Mental Health First Aider training.
