Here's why you feel tired in January and how to get your energy back

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Detty December has finally come to an end, and the 9-5ers are back at their desks.

Are we ready? Probably not.

The festive season came with high energy—from wild Detty December parties and weddings to the Christmas celebrations and New Year’s excitement. Spirits were high, but that buzz didn’t last long.

Right after enjoying that New Year’s fried rice and chicken, a nagging thought crept in: it’s a new year, and there’s so much to achieve. You hastily scribble a few words on paper under the heading “2025 Goals.” Maybe it’s something like “…go to the gym more.”

Sound familiar?

You remember writing that same goal for 2024 and giving up before January was even over. This time, you convince yourself: “I’ll stick to my plan, I promise.”

A promise, huh? Well, we’ll see.

Amid all of this, you can’t seem to shake off the inertia. With every high truly comes a low. So, how can you overcome this post-holiday, beginning-of-year blues?

1. Ease back into routine

You’ve just had weeks of irregular schedules, late-night hangouts, and more food than your body knows what to do with. Naturally, jumping straight back into work mode feels like a chore.

Instead of expecting yourself to snap back to perfection, take it one step at a time. Start your day with a simple to-do list, and tackle easy tasks first.

2. Hydrate and cleanse

Did you know that dehydration can make you feel sluggish and tired? After all those sodas and cocktails from the holidays, your body could use some cleansing.

Drink plenty of water and focus on healthy, energising foods. Think fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

3. Have a workout routine

Yes, this might sound like a cliché, but hear us out. Physical activity, no matter how small, releases endorphins that help you feel more alert and happy. You don’t need to run a marathon or hit the gym every day (yet). Start with a walk, a few stretches, or a 10-minute yoga session in your living room. Movement, however little, can be great for you.

4. Set realistic goals

We get it; the “new year, new me” energy is intoxicating. But writing a list of 50 impossible goals will only leave you overwhelmed before February. Instead, pick two or three goals that really matter and focus on those. Break them into smaller steps and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Progress, not perfection, is the aim.

5. Make time for rest and fun

You’ve just spent December having a blast, so the sudden seriousness of January can feel like a shock to the system. Don’t let the “all work, no play” mentality consume you. Schedule moments of joy into your week. You could catching up on your favourite show, read a book, or hang out with friends. Rest isn’t a reward; it’s necessary for productivity.

A New Year, A New You

January may feel heavy, but it’s also a time for fresh beginnings. It’s okay to not have everything figured out immediately. Life is a marathon, not a sprint.

So, grab that glass of water, make that realistic to-do list, and remind yourself: the best is yet to come.