Beating the January Blues

They affect us all!

As an EA, you're the backbone of your organisation, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes. But even the most organised and efficient EAs can feel the effects of the January blues. After the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, returning to work in the cold, dark days of January can be challenging, especially if your company has just ordered you back to the office five days a week.

January can be a difficult month for lots of reasons, which can mean we often start to evaluate our lives and consider on which path we are headed. This is completely normal. However, there are a few things I’ve done over the years that have helped me feel more positive and optimistic.

Understanding the January Blues

The January blues, while not a clinical diagnosis, is a common phenomenon that affects many professionals, including EAs. It's characterised by feelings of low mood, lack of motivation, and decreased energy levels. For EAs, who often juggle multiple high-stakes responsibilities, these feelings can be particularly challenging. Even more so - from my experience - when we are often those left out of bonus discussions that other members of the team might be having, or looking forward to, around this time of year.

Recognizing the Symptoms

As an EA, you might experience the January blues through:

• Difficulty concentrating on tasks

• Procrastination on important projects

• Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list

• Lack of enthusiasm for organising events or meetings

• Decreased efficiency in managing your executive's schedule

Strategies to Beat the January Blues

1. Reorganize Your Workspace

Start the year by decluttering and reorganising your desk or home office. A clean, organised space can help clear your mind and boost productivity. Consider adding a small plant to your desk to bring a touch of nature indoors. It also gives you a quick win in terms of ticking something off your list. It can be really therapeutic to have a bit of a clear out.

If the job seems a little too much, consider breaking it down into smaller tasks. For example, clear out one drawer, or challenge yourself to throw away or file five pieces of paper.

2. Create a Clear Task List