January can often feel like the longest month of the year. The festive cheer has faded, we’re easing back into our routines, and those to-do lists seem to be growing longer by the day. Despite this, remaining positive doesn’t have to be a challenge. By implementing a few simple steps, we can start this year with a renewed sense of focus, energy, and optimism.
Here’s a guide to remaining positive this January and understanding why it is important:
Start each day with Gratitude
It’s easy to get caught up in the darkest time of the year – literally. We often feel the pressure to jump from the 2024 version of ourselves onto the “new-year-new-me” bandwagon, and can feel discouraged if we, or others around us, don’t immediately meet those “lofty” expectations.
However, simply starting our day with gratitude can shift our perspective and mood completely. When you wake up, take a moment to list three things you are grateful for. They don’t have to be big or monumental – it could be a supportive colleague, the satisfaction of ticking off an important task, or enjoying a well-deserved moment of calm.
Doing this will help you recognise the positive moments in your day and start with a more optimistic outlook. Practising gratitude can feel strange at first, but starting small with just one or two things each day can make it easier to turn this into a routine.
Set Small, Achievable Goals
We can often feel overwhelmed by all that we want to achieve in the new year. It’s tempting to set goals that are too big, too vague, or too impersonal. When those goals seem out of reach, it is easy to get discouraged.
January is not about solving and achieving everything at once. Focus instead on goals that are important to you. Write them down and break your goals into manageable steps. Once you’ve completed a step, celebrate the win! In no time, you’ll reflect in gratitude and pride on the meaningful progress that you’ve made.
Prioritise Self-Care
Managing schools and teaching can be incredibly stressful. On top of that, we live in a society with an underlying belief that we must always be productive. Long hours and skipped breaks are too often rewarded.
However, burning the candle at both ends leads to burnout, depression, anxiety, and resentment, among other negative implications. That is why it is essential for us to create time for ourselves and practice self-care.
Think back to the activities that bring you the most joy and make you feel rejuvenated. Is it a walk during lunch, reading a good book, or saying no to an extra responsibility when your plate is already full.
Remember: a rested and happy you is the best version of yourself for your family, colleagues, and students.
Focus on Connection
Human beings are social creatures that are wired to seek out connection. Building connections strengthens teamwork, collaboration and helps create a supportive work environment.
This January, take time to connect with your colleagues. Share your experiences, offer encouragement and build supportive relationships. A challenging day becomes lighter when you’re supported by others who understand.
Celebrate the Wins
Too often, we only celebrate the big wins in life: successful Ofsted inspections, promotions to leadership roles or significant educational achievements. However, each day offers small achievements that deserve recognition.
Did a student finally grasp a concept? Did you manage to leave work on time? Whatever the moment, take the time to recognise it and let it remind you why you do what you do.
Celebrating the wins boosts your mood, builds confidence and keeps you motivated when it comes to the bigger picture. It’s time to stop overlooking them and start celebrating them.
Final Thoughts
Positivity isn’t about overlooking challenges - it’s about recognising the small positives that can make a big difference. When you choose to practice gratitude, set realistic goals, prioritise self-care, connect with others and celebrate your small wins, you can make January a month of progress, productivity, and positivity.
Here’s to starting 2025 on a high note - one small step (and win) at a time!