We Survived!

You may not have known it, but January 24 was the most depressing day of the year. No wonder I felt gloomy last night! According to British psychologist, Dr. Cliff Arnall, January 24th is the day when misery peaks and reality starts to kick in.

Holiday cheer is long gone. Days are longer, and cold, dreary weather blankets most of the country. To make matters worse, the majority of people have already broken their healthy new years resolutions. Many break them 6-7 days into the new year, and even the most resolute typically fall off the wagon by the third week. Pretty sad, huh? That’s why my resolution every year is to not make a resolution.

The January 24th date was calculated by Dr. Arnall using a formula which he created. Dr. Arnall’s formula takes into account a number of factors including weather, debt, time since Christmas, low motivational levels, and time since failed quit attempts. It was actually created to help a travel company determine when people tend to book vacations. Research suggests that people are more likely to plan a vacation when they feel depressed. It gives them something to be excited about.

It’s so funny. As I read the article, I could relate completely. This time of year, I’m always trying to figure out what my next trip will be. Last year, we went to Nice, France. The year before, Breckenridge. This year, I have already signed up for a trip to Israel, and I’m trying to squeeze a quick ski trip into our schedule before the season ends. I guess I’m not immune to the winter blues either.

The good news is that we survived! The worst day of the year has already passed. And once you reach the bottom, there’s no other place to go except up. It’ll just keep getting better and better from here on out. So, shrug off those winter blues and put on a smile. Spring is on the way, and your next vacation will be here before you know it!