Today is the third Monday in January, also known as “Blue Monday” (a.k.a. the most depressing day of the year). The holidays have been over for a few weeks, the sun is still setting super early, and we have a few months of unbearably cold weather ahead of us. Everyone is susceptible to getting sad on this gloomy day, and remote workers, in particular, have to take steps to keep their mental health in check.

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and while this work style has been found to boost job satisfaction and create a better work-life balance, there are still downsides to it. Working from home can do a number on your mental health and cause feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

If you’re a freelancer that feels your mental health is hanging in the balance this Blue Monday, we’re here to help. Here are five mental health tips that can benefit freelancers and remote workers.

1. Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care is the first thing to go to the wayside when life gets busy, but as a remote worker prioritizing self-care is of utmost importance. Taking the time to meditate, exercise, or practise other forms of self-care every day can have a huge impact on your state of mind and help you get to where you want to go in life.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of being a freelancer, especially when it’s the new year, and you’ve just written down a list of goals you’d like to accomplish. However, taking on every project that comes your way is not sustainable in the long run and learning how to say “no” is the only way to prevent burning out.

3. Get Out There and Socialize

Loneliness and isolation are incredibly bad for both your mental and physical health, and unfortunately, remote workers are especially prone to experiencing these feelings. Making a conscious effort to get out there and socialize at least a few times a week is a surefire way to alleviate loneliness and improve your mental health.

4. Stick to a Schedule

Working at your own pace is a major upside to being a freelancer, but if you don’t schedule your time, you can easily fall prey to working 24/7. By organizing the hours in your day and sticking to a schedule, you’ll have much more time to spend with loved ones and get some much-needed rest.

5. Keep Your Professional and Personal Life Separate

While living and working in the same space is convenient in terms of commute times, it can hinder your ability to step away from work, regroup, and recharge. By designating a space in your home to work or opting to work at a coworking space, you’ll be better equipped to separate and compartmentalize your professional and personal life.

That’s it! By putting these five mental health tips into practice, you’ll be able to beat the blues this Monday and for the foreseeable future. And if you’re a remote worker or freelancer that’s looking for a workspace where you can to keep your mental health in check and your business thriving, it’s time to join the Project Spaces fam!

Project Spaces has two community-first coworking spaces in Toronto that are home to some of the city’s finest freelancers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs. We hold weekly events to keep our members feeling inspired and help combat the loneliness that can come with working remotely. Book a tour of our spaces today and say goodbye to the blues!

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