January is known to be the month where peoples' mood is at its lowest. It's the return back to work after the festive period.
There is even Blue Monday on 15th January!
So you may notice staff a little more distant, maybe thinking of when the weather will improve, when is their next holiday... the overall mood may feel glum and gloomy!
LET ME TELL YOU A SECRET..........
Despite the bad press about January research shows that this month has just as much workplace discontent and struggle as every other month. We have placed this emphasis on this month over a period of years so our staff feed into it and their brains psychological think 'January blues'
We can't wave a magic wand and disperse this notion, however... we can implement some remedies to support you and your staff to overcome the deflated feeling after the holidays....
Ways you and your team can get through the January blues....
Companies such as Charted Institute of Personnel and Development, Harvard Business Review and UK Charity Mind have gone out to businesses to look at 'The Blues' and what businesses try to do to support their staff.
Here are some of the strategies for looking after yourself and your teams physical and emotional wellbeing.
# Regular check - ins
It's well known that communication is the make or break tool in relationships. Make it a regular habit to check in with staff on how they are. Virtual teams channels have made this a lot easier to check in, and has been shown that teams who are able to share their feelings in a safe and open environment and are encouraged to talk openly, expressing vulnerability supports mental wellbeing.
It gives staff a forum to feel they are not alone in their feelings, the main foundation to setting up these regular checkins is to offer support and encouragement to each other.
Set the presidency of these check ins with your team and show some vulnerability as well as one way that you're going to stay motivated too.
# One with nature
We have an innate need to be in nature and be outdoors. Extensive studies have shown that being in nature or green spaces not only improves our wellbeing but reduces our emotions of stress and anger.
Encouraging staff to take breaks away from their desks for a small walk outside, even together if in the office, maybe even sitting in their garden if working virtually. Do this practice yourself too, it will also show your team you're leading by example.
Taking breaks and short walks to engage our muscles releases endorphins which will improve mood and focus. Introduce 'A walk around the block' breaks or even 'Walk and Talk' meetings.
# Revisit goals
No matter when individual and team goals were set. It's a great time to reset and refocus on the year ahead. It can give yourself and your team a chance to reflect on what's been achieved so far and focus on what goals are still in progress.
It encourages taking time to consider what is to be achieved both personally in career development and ensuring team goals are still aligned to the departmental and organisational objectives.
Introduce a 'Start to the Year Review' that can be done as a team and individually, set aside time in diaries for this.
# Small gestures
Asking staff what might help and support them through this month is a simple gesture but can actually have a huge impact on people.
One small change or additional support such as a 'Coffee and catch up', 'Pooled lunches', it could be providing snacks in the break room or allowing for suggestions in the staff canteen/ restaurant.
The changes don't have to be financially significant but it could result in more productivity and a more positive working environment for everyone.
Staff feel more engaged and want to come to work (both in person and virtually) when they feel listened to and heard.
# Lead by example
It can be a challenge to feel upbeat yourself when coming back but as leaders we are looked upon for that drive initially.
Communicating positive messages to teams, giving praise and encouraging feedback can help staff feel more positive and that in turn will allow you to feel more positive. Just as negativity can quickly spread so can positivity!
Allow your staff to give you that positive reinforcement too when it is needed. A truly supportive team drives and motivates each other no matter what grade or level you are.
Explore further...
Are you keen to explore more ways in which to engage, motivate and retain staff in your organisation?
Contact InspireOD to book a consultation here
If you have any great ideas and tips you would like to share on how you keep yourself and or your team motivated in January, comment below:
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