Today is Blue Monday. You should be depressed.

Today is Blue Monday. You should be depressed. 

But what exactly is Blue Monday? It's a concept created to symbolize the time in January when the post-holiday blues set in, the weather is dreary, our pockets have been drained by Christmas and motivation seems at its lowest.

However, it's also a perfect moment to remind ourselves that despite external factors, we have significant control over our happiness and well-being. According to Professor Sonja Lyubomirsky, about 40% of our happiness is determined by our actions, behaviours, and thoughts – in other words, it's within our control.

When we're feeling a bit low, and it seems harder than usual to recharge our mental batteries, we can take solace in knowing that our actions have power. Professor Lyubomirsky suggests 12 different interventions that research indicates can enhance our well-being over six weeks. Here they are:

1 Expressing Gratitude: Take the time to write down or reflect on things you are grateful for.

2 Cultivating Optimism: Practice looking at the bright side of situations.

3 Avoiding Overthinking: Engage in activities that keep your mind from dwelling on negative thoughts.

4 Practicing Acts of Kindness: Do good for others without expecting anything in return.

5 Nurturing Social Relationships: Invest time and energy in your relationships with friends and family.

6 Developing Strategies for Coping: Find ways to deal with stress and hardship effectively.

7 Learning to Forgive: Let go of anger and resentments towards others.

8 Increasing Flow Experiences: Engage in activities that fully immerse and engage you.

9 Savouring Life's Joys: Take the time to really enjoy the good moments.

10 Committing to Your Goals: Set personal goals and work steadily towards them.

11 Practicing Religion or Spirituality: If it aligns with your beliefs, engage in spiritual or religious practices.

12 Taking Care of Your Body: Engage in physical activity and mindful practices like meditation.

These aren't daily chores but weekly practices that can bring about a real change in our outlook.

So, though it may be a bit late for New Year's resolutions, why not give one or two of these interventions a try? Which of these appeals to you as a way to boost your happiness and overcome the Blue Monday blues? 

Remember, each step we take towards positive behaviour and thought patterns can significantly influence our overall happiness.

Let's not let Blue Monday bring us down. Instead, let's see it as an opportunity to engage in behaviours that boost our happiness and well-being. Your thoughts and actions are powerful tools in crafting a more joyful life.