Blue Monday 2024: Tips for Improving Employee Morale
January 15th marks Blue Monday 2024, a day that is often regarded as the most depressing day of the year. Despite the mixed reception it receives, the pervasive marketing surrounding Blue Monday has led to increased web searches for ’employees’, ‘morale’ and ‘Blue Monday’.
Small business owners are taking action to counteract any negative effects on their employees. By fostering a positive work environment, they hope to improve overall employee morale, not just on Blue Monday.
How Businesses are Combating Blue Monday
Small businesses are implementing various strategies to uplift their employees’ spirits. For example, employers at The Media Foundry have launched a pub quiz called ‘Bye Bye, Blue Monday’, while Incorpore Ltd is treating its office to breakfast and coffee. Similarly, e-days is holding a puzzle competition, and Tiger Recruitment has planned an exercise bootcamp and a mental health newsletter. These initiatives are aimed at boosting staff motivation and engagement.
Effecting Lasting Change
Despite the skepticism around Blue Monday, small business owners like Alan Lynch, CEO of Compare&Choose, are focused on fostering an environment of mental well-being year-round. By implementing flexible work policies and encouraging open dialogue about mental health, they are striving to create a supportive workplace throughout the year.
Another example is Straight Forward Design, where the creative director, Mike Foster, believes in staving off the ‘Blue Monday’ feeling with in-house projects and side projects that keep employees motivated and connected to the organization.
Creating A Positive Mindset
Instead of gimmicks, employers like Mike Nolan, co-founder of PressPlugs, focus on promoting a positive mindset and practicing mindfulness meditation with their employees. They emphasize gratitude and having a healthy lunch as part of their strategy to improve collective mental well-being.
Conclusion
By acknowledging the concerns surrounding Blue Monday, employers are proactively working towards maintaining a positive and healthy workplace environment. Addressing employee morale, mental well-being, and motivation on Blue Monday is a step towards creating a better work culture year-round. For further guidance on improving employee motivation, read our essential guide.
