With many of us going to work in the dark and clocking off after the sun goes down, an urge to hit the snooze button is not unusual at this time of year. In fact, the third Monday in January has become known as Blue Monday, a day when employees call in sick in record numbers.
While analysts tell us that the highest absences could occur on any Monday in January or early February, there is no doubt that cold commutes and post-Christmas blues (and bank balances!) can lead us to lack motivation and question our career choices.
If you’re suffering with the Blue Mondays the Careers Service has plenty of resources to help you, whether it’s taking care of your mental health or exploring alternative career routes.
New Year, New Career?
If your January slump is stretching well into spring, it might be time to consider a career that suits you better.
If you’re ready to move on but you’re not sure where to start, the Careers Service sector guide is a fantastic jumping off point.
If you’ve had your eye on a different industry for a while but fear leaving the security of your job behind, take a look at our labour market information to get to grips with a sector’s growth, opportunities and trends.
If you daydream about taking your side hustle full time, the Careers Service has resources for start-ups and entrepreneurs too.
It’s important to take time to consider whether a career change is right for you, but if most work days are a Blue Monday for you then use the live chat on our website to find out how we can help find work that works for you.
Still here for you
The Careers Service is available to University of Bristol graduates for three years after graduation! If you are looking for work, overwhelmed by applications or tired of scrolling through job boards, we’re on hand to help.
The vacancy board on myCareer allows you to search for graduate roles with immediate start dates.
Once you’ve found the perfect job, the Careers Service has application and CV tools to help your applications get to the top of the pile.
Perhaps you’re holding back from committing to a graduate job as you’re unsure if it will be right for you. The SME Internship Scheme enables you to find paid work experience in a wealth of different industries, giving you a chance to dip your toes before diving in.
Bye, Bye Blue Mondays
Whatever the season, whatever stage you’re at in your career planning, its essential to take care of your mental health and wellbeing.
Read our blog about taking care of your wellbeing in the workplace and check out advice on how to handle the transition from student to professional. The Careers Service is here for you and can help chase those Blue Mondays away.