Even though we’re now roughly at the half-way point, January always feels like one of the longest months of the year. When the Christmas decorations get put away for another year and the bills associated with all those light-up decorations start to trickle in, it’s easy to find yourself feeling a little down in the dumps. If you’re looking for some ways to get you through the remainder of winter (or at least distract you until that long-awaited January pay-packet arrives) then look no further.
1. Avoid Unrealistic Goals for the New Year
“By this time next year, we’ll be millionaires” sounds like a great plan to try to achieve over the next 12 months, but it’s not exactly a realistic one. Many of us spend the first few weeks of January making and breaking our New Year’s Resolutions, which often only leads to a feeling of failure and more misery, but there is a way to make the ‘New Year, New Me’ attitude work. Be realistic and start small!
Instead of aiming to be a millionaire by the end of 2024, commit to saving a smaller, more likely amount to reduce the risk of feeling down because you didn’t hit your goal. It may also help to set some mini-goals for throughout January (and the rest of the year) to contribute to your main goal and get your year off to a successful start. Be it Dry January, cutting out takeaway coffees for a few weeks, or shopping around on household items and insurance (little tip, the AA website may be able to help you there), succeeding at these smaller goals will help put you on the path towards achieving your main aim by the end of the year.
2. Start Planning your summer Holiday
One of the main reasons many of us find January a depressing month is the mix of dark, dreary nights and the fact that now that Christmas is over, the summer holiday off in the distance is the next big thing to look forward to. While there may not be a way to make time go faster and get you on the beach with a drink in your hand that bit sooner, making your plans now (or at least doing some research into potential destinations/hotels/sites to see) is a great way of getting over the January hump.
Booking flights at this time of year can also net some big savings, meaning you’ll have more money to spend on the more fun aspects of your holiday. Meanwhile, to help contribute to your saving plans, consider purchasing an annual travel insurance policy now which will cover you on all trips over the next 12 months and, if you’re a regular jet-setter, likely work out cheaper than purchasing individual policies each time you travel.
3. Take Up Something New
This time of year can often feel like Lent when you were back in primary school and the teacher would ask each student what they were giving up. However, it can also be a great opportunity to start something new. Whether you’re the sporty type, an adventurer, or looking for a more relaxing activity, changing up your routine and adding in something new can be a great alternative to sitting in front of the tv on these dreary nights.
If improving your fitness is one of your goals for the year, taking up a sport/activity or starting back at an old hobby is a great way of achieving this without going down the traditional route of paying for a year’s gym membership, visiting a few times in January and then never setting foot in the place again once the days get longer.
4. Consider a City-Break
We know this one might not fit in with your plans to save big in 2024, but bear with us here – life is meant for living too after all! Whether it’s a romantic Valentine’s getaway, a boozy St. Patrick’s Day trip or just a relaxing weekend away, getting away from work and home for just a few days can be a great way to both give yourself something more immediate than your summer trip to feel excited about and help beat those winter blues.
Opting for a less popular destination (check out some of our favourites) can also help keep costs down, while also allowing you to tick off another popular resolution to see more of the world.
5. Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself
If you are the type of person to have a long list of things you want to achieve for the year ahead, remember that they don’t all have to be ticked off by the end of January. Whether it’s to travel more, lose a few pounds, put some euros aside for a rainy day, or just spend more time with the family, you have 12 months to achieve what you want to this year – not just 31 days.
6. Consider a Social Media Break
Social media is a great tool for keeping in touch with friends and family scattered across the world, but it can also come with a downside. If you’re feeling the blues this time of year, then scrolling through your third cousin, twice removed’s photos as they backpack across the world while you’re stuck in the office isn’t exactly helpful. Instead, use the time you would normally spend on social media for something more useful – maybe an online course in something you’ve always wanted to try, practicing a new skill or hobby, or whatever takes your fancy.
Whether your 2024 includes a plan to jet-hop across the world, enjoy more holidays with the family, or do your best not to injure yourself on the ski slopes, then AA Travel Insurance provides cover which can meet all your needs.
