Wednesday Wisdom How To Make It Through January

So, here it is, January is upon us. It only feels like five minutes ago that we were getting excited about the Christmas break and now it's over. There's no doubt that the festive period is one of the most enjoyable times of year. Loads of food, loads of drink, New Year 's Eve, the list goes on…

As you began your commute to work yesterday morning, the January comedown started to kick in. Those ten days out of work are enough to throw anyone off, but it's time to get back into a routine.

The first month of the year is difficult for a number of reasons; cold weather, no money and you're a stone heavier. We want to help you through the next month and have come up with some advice on how to boss January – and it's all achievable!

Get to the gym

You've heard it all before, it seems every man and their dog's new year's resolution is to join the gym. Whether it's a case of joining the gym or actually going to the gym for the first time in two months, we recommend you do so.

Who wouldn't want to drop a few pounds, get in better shape and improve their metabolism? Working out on a regular basis is also fantastic for your mental health and dramatically improves your mood. Don't forget that it's a great way to meet people as well; especially if you take part in classes.

The benefits are plain to see and if you hit it hard throughout January, you will even begin to see results before the end of the month!

Eat and drink better

If you're going to start exercising more, then it's important to get your diet in check, too. Rid your house of all the crap you've consumed over Christmas, dipping your hands in a box of Celebrations each night is not the way to go.

Cut out the ready meals and sandwiches at work, and start preparing your own lunches. Good meal prep won't only save you money, you will eat much healthier! It might sound a boring task (and a lot of Tupperware) prepping meals seven days in advance, but a couple of hours in the kitchen one night will pay off in the long run.

It's also a good idea to start drinking more water. Fizzy drinks are no good for you and will just make you fat in the long run. Plenty of water throughout the day will boost your metabolism, improve concentration and make skin clearer.

Dry January

If you're serious about bossing January, then why don't you go a month without any alcohol? Yes, this might sound like the most ludicrous thing we've ever suggested; but it'll be worth it!

No doubt you will have over indulged on the booze over Christmas, so January is an ideal time to give your liver a rest. Not only will your health improve by giving up the drink for a few weeks, you will save a considerable amount of money, which is always a bonus after Christmas.

If you've already had a drink this month, not to worry, just do it from now until the end of the month!

Make plans

After the excitement of December, January can seem dull with nothing to look forward. That's why it's a good idea to put some plans in place for the year ahead this month!

You could start planning a holiday with the Mrs in the summer, or why don't you get the lads together to organise one of your mates' stag do – we can help you out there!

Or maybe you want to set yourself a challenge for the year; climb a mountain or run a marathon, the possibilities are endless. Planning stuff for 2017 gives you something to save up for financially and those plans can brighten up the grey January skies!

Gifs via giphy.com