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Beating the mid-January slump

January 23rd 2025

3 minutes read

Beating the mid-January slump
Written by LiveLink
January 23rd 2025
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Beating the Mid-January Slump

The new year always starts with a bang doesn’t it.

You’ve made plans, set goals, and felt excitement about all the possibilities ahead. But then, as January rolls into February, reality sets in. That early-year buzz begins to fade, and for many business owners, a mid-winter slump kicks in.

You’re not alone. This time of year can be tough for business owners and for me too. After the high of Christmas and new year holidays and the craziness of the start of January,  the slower pace of February can feel like a stark contrast. Add in the dreary weather, shorter, grey days, and financial pressures after all that spending, and it’s easy to see why motivation can take a dip.

But there is good news. You can get your energy and enthusiasm back. Here’s why  business owners tend to struggle in mid-winter and, more importantly, how you can get your passion back for your business.

Why Small Business Owners Feel Low in January and February

The Post-Holiday Come Down
December can be a whirlwind of activity, whether you’re partying, catching up with work, or wrapping up projects before the year ends. That intense pace can make the quieter months feel sluggish in comparison. Without the immediate pressure of deadlines and sales, it’s easy to feel a bit lost.

Slow Sales 
Depending on your industry, sales can dip in January and February as consumers tighten their belts after holiday spending. If your phone isn’t ringing as much or enquiries have slowed, it can be discouraging.

The Weather and Lack of Sunlight
Let’s face it—grey skies, cold weather, and shorter days aren’t exactly inspiring.  This can contribute to low energy and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by winter months.

New Year’s Resolutions Feel Overwhelming
You started January with big goals and high expectations. But as the month moves on, the excitement can turn into pressure. If you’re already feeling behind, it’s easy to feel deflated rather than motivated.

How to Lift Your Mood and Get Excited About Your Business Again

The good news is that a slump isn’t permanent. With a few mindset shifts and actions, you can get back on track and even find fresh enthusiasm for your business.

  • Celebrate Small Wins
    If you’re feeling like you haven’t made progress, break things down into small, achievable goals. Celebrate small wins, like getting a new customer, finishing a tricky project, or even just clearing your inbox. Progress—no matter how small—builds momentum.
  • Shake Up Your Routine
    If your days feel monotonous, change things up. Work from a coffee shop, rearrange your workspace, or try time-blocking to make your schedule feel fresh. Pomodoro method might suit you. A little change can make a big difference in how you feel.
  • Reconnect with Your Network
    You’re not alone in feeling this way! Reach out to fellow business owners, join an online networking event, or set up a coffee chat with a mentor or friend. Conversations with like-minded people can provide fresh perspectives and motivation.
  • Try Something New in Your Business
    Experimenting with a new service, launching a small promotion, or starting a fresh marketing campaign can inject excitement back into your business. Even small tweaks can make things feel fresh and interesting again.
  • Prioritise Self-Care
    Burnout and low energy are real, and pushing through without taking care of yourself won’t help. Make time for exercise, get outside during daylight hours, and ensure you’re getting enough rest. Your business needs you at your best.
  • Plan for the Next Exciting Thing
    If January and February feel slow, start planning for something exciting in March or beyond. Maybe that’s a big sale, a new product launch, or an event. Having something to look forward to can shift your mindset from “this is a slow time” to “I’m gearing up for something great.”

If you’re feeling a little low right now, don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s normal to experience ups and downs, especially at this time of year.

Remember, this season won’t last forever—spring is just around the corner, and with it comes fresh energy and new opportunities. Until then, take care of yourself, buy some daffodils, embrace small wins, and keep moving forward. Your business (and your future self) will thank you for it!

 

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