How To Make January 2019 Your Happiest Yet, From Those Who Know How

“I would also suggest planning your time off for the year ahead so you ensure you take regular breaks,” she says. “We can easily forget to take a break when work gets heavy.”

Sherina White, from Northamptonshire, is also an avid-traveller come January and particularly loves the fact that everywhere is often quieter. (She also loves the first month of the year as it marks hers and her daughter’s birthdays.) It’s a great time for a weekend away, if you can’t afford a huge holiday abroad. “Things are slightly slower after the Christmas rush,” says the 38-year-old business owner, who sells grazing boxes and platters. “I enjoy the quiet. Weekends away in January are usually not as busy, but still busy enough for a balanced time away.”

Rachida Benamar used to hate January when she worked as a lawyer, but since becoming self-employed and doing a job she loves, her feelings have taken a U-turn. The 32-year-old who lives in Islington, London, and runs two businesses (one selling stationery and the other as a career coach), says: “Now, I cannot wait for it to be January because I do what I love. In fact, I am almost a little too eager. That’s not to say that my new path isn’t tough at times, it is, but the satisfaction I get from being able to control my own destiny is incredible.” So if you’re having the back to work blues, perhaps it’s time for a change of job?

Benamar also likes to seize the opportunity to set good habits for the year ahead. She will declutter her wardrobe (giving items to charity) and focus on self-care, which includes getting out and about in the fresh air. “I don’t follow any diet or exercise plan but I love walking London’s streets, it is the greatest city on Earth and is best seen on foot,” she says. “I also indulge myself in a monthly massage.”