Overcoming Monday Blues

Are you wrestling with the blues every Sunday evening, dreading the start of a new workweek? If so, it might be time for a new job.

We delve into the signs you need a new job, ways to combat the symptoms, and how to keep your motivation high at the start of a new week.

Understanding The Monday Blues

A well-documented phenomenon affecting millions of workers worldwide, it's those not-so-great feelings kicking in at the start of the workweek – think anxiety, sadness, and frustration.

Getting back into the grind after a two-day break can be tough, especially if you're not loving your job. For some, the beginning of the week isn't just a minor annoyance—it can be a trigger for a noticeable dip in mood.

If those feelings stick around, it might be a sign that your job isn't cutting it, and maybe it's time for a Switch!

The Impact of Monday Blues

It can have a significant impact on your productivity, job satisfaction, and overall mental health. They can lead to chronic stress, decreased motivation, and burnout, affecting not only your work performance but also your personal life.

Symptoms of the Monday blues can include:

• Sadness without another obvious cause
• Lethargy and feeling more tired than you would normally
• Feeling overly agitated
• Headaches
• Persistent and intrusive thoughts, worrying about the week to come
• A sense of dread or uneasiness
• Changes in appetite - not being able to eat or eating more to comfort yourself
• Trouble sleeping
• Muscle tension

Signs You Need A New Job

If you're experiencing this more often than not, it may be a sign that you need a new job. Here are some key signs to look out for.

#1 Dreading Every Day

If Mondays bring dread or Sunday nights spark anxiety, it's a sign something's off. If the Monday blues persist nightly, it's a clear signal that the job or company isn't the right fit. Life's too short to not enjoy what you do every day.

#2 Lack of Motivation

Do you struggle to get out of bed on Monday mornings? Do you lack the energy or motivation to tackle your work tasks?

#3 Feeling Unappreciated

If your efforts go unnoticed or you don't feel valued in your current role, it can contribute to a blue feeling.

#4 Lack of Passion

If you're not passionate about what you do, it can be tough to find the motivation to start a new week.

#5 Workplace Stress

Constant workplace stress can make the thought of Monday morning overwhelming.

#6 Lack of Growth Opportunities

If there's no room for growth or advancement in your current job, it can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. 

Overcoming The Monday Blues

Once you've identified that you need a new job, the next step is overcoming the Monday blues as you navigate your job search. Here are some strategies:

Wrap up Monday on Friday

Before shutting down the PC on Friday, plan out Monday's tasks. Lighten the load by laying the groundwork, making Monday smoother and avoiding ad-hoc work blues or additional worry.

Changing Your Perspective

Changing your perspective can go a long way in battling this. Instead of viewing Monday as the end of your weekend, try to see it as a fresh start and an opportunity to set the tone for the rest of the week.

Planning Ahead

Plan your Monday ahead of time to reduce stress and anxiety. Prepare your outfit, pack your lunch, and set your personal goals for the week on Sunday evening. 

Prioritising Self-Care

Make sure you're looking out for your physical and mental well-being. Catch enough z's, chow down on good grub, and weave some exercise into your routine.

Weekends are for unwinding, hitting the pub, or even running a 5K, but self-care isn't limited to Friday night to Sunday midnight. Look after your mind, body, and soul all week, reserving the major relaxation for the weekend. 

This way, self-care uplifts you throughout the week, not just on Mondays. You should treat yourself to something you genuinely enjoy. Every. Single. Day. Even if that’s going to bed a bit earlier with a good book, watching an episode of your favourite show or cooking something tasty for your dinner.

Creating A Positive Morning Routine

Start your Monday with a positive and energising morning routine. This could include a workout, a healthy breakfast, or a few minutes of mindful meditation.

Seeking Support

Don't hesitate to seek support if you're struggling. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or professional counsellor.

Monday Motivation: Keeping Your Spirits High

While you're in the process of finding a new job, it's important to keep your spirits high on Mondays. Here are some strategies to boost your motivation:

Celebrating Small Wins

Celebrate your small wins and achievements. This can help you start your week on a positive note and keep your motivation high.

Taking Breaks

Taking regular breaks can help prevent burnout and keep your energy levels up. Use your breaks to stretch, take a walk, or do something you enjoy.

Practising Gratitude

Practising gratitude can help shift your focus from what's going wrong to what's going well. Start your Monday by writing down three things you're grateful for.

Finding A New Job: Making The Switch

If you've decided that you need a new job, the next step is to start your job search. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Identifying Your Career Goals

Before you start applying for jobs, take some time to identify your career goals. What kind of role are you looking for? What skills do you want to use? What kind of company culture do you thrive in?

Your CV

Update your CV to make sure it's ready to give the best first impression of you possible.  If you are struggling - read our top tips for crafting a winning CV.

Create a Profile on a Jobs Board

If you know that you want your next role to be in retail, Hospitality or Leisure then you are in the right place. Register your profile with Switch Role to search for jobs with some of the biggest brands. If your career direction lies elsewhere head to larger job boards such as Indeed or Monster.

Updating Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression potential employers have of you. Make sure it's up to date and showcase your skills, experience, and career goals effectively.

Networking

Networking can be a powerful tool in your job search. Connect with professionals in your industry, attend networking events, and let your contacts know that you're looking for a new job.

Preparing For Interviews

Preparing for interviews is crucial. Research the company, practise common interview questions, and prepare questions to ask the interviewer.

By recognising the signs, overcoming the blues, boosting your Monday motivation, and embarking on your job search, you can switch to a job that brings you satisfaction and fulfilment. Remember, every day is an opportunity to find a job that makes you look forward to Mondays.

Ready to explore careers in retail, hospitality, or leisure? We're here for you! We aim to help you find the perfect job, enhance your skills, and propel your career forward so that Monday blues can be a thing of the past.