It’s January. The holidays are over, your inbox is overflowing, and that new-year-new-you energy? Already fading. If you’ve found yourself questioning your job while doom-scrolling LinkedIn for opportunities, you’re not alone. Blue Monday—the so-called “most depressing day of the year”—taps into exactly that kind of work-life dissatisfaction.
But instead of letting the career blues drag you down, January could be the perfect time to hit reset and map out your next career move. Here’s how to shift your mindset, refresh your job search strategy, and take action that leads to the career change you’ve been dreaming about.
Why January Makes You Rethink Everything About Your Job
We all know the feeling:
- You come back from the holidays rested, but the first Monday back hits like a brick wall.
- You start reflecting on what hasn’t been working—whether it’s long hours, a lack of purpose, or a toxic culture—and feel stuck in a loop.
- Meanwhile, everyone else on LinkedIn seems to be celebrating promotions and “dream roles” that make you question your career choices.
So, why does January feel so hard?
- The post-holiday reality check: After time away, returning to the same stressors can be deflating.
- New Year’s pressure: The pressure to suddenly “fix your life” in January can feel overwhelming.
- Winter blues: Short, cold days can add to the overall sense of fatigue and demotivation.
But remember: feeling stuck doesn’t mean you are stuck. There are practical ways to combat these feelings and regain your sense of purpose.
Feeling Unmotivated? Here’s How to Refresh Your Career in January
1. Your CV Needs a Glow-Up (Even if You’re Not Actively Applying)
When was the last time you updated your CV? If it’s been a while, it probably looks like a dry list of tasks. Instead, think of it as a highlight reel that shows off your career wins and strengths. Even if you’re unsure whether to job hunt, updating your CV can remind you of how far you’ve come—and prepare you for when the right role pops up.
Quick CV Wins:
- Add a Key Achievements section at the top. Include career wins like:
- “Saved the company £50k annually by automating month-end reporting processes.”
- “Led a project that increased client retention by 20%.”
- Swap generic phrases for action verbs: words like “led,” “implemented,” “negotiated,” and “increased” show that you’ve made an impact.
Pro Tip: Save a job description for your dream role and check if your CV includes the right keywords for applicant tracking systems (ATS). Recruiters search for terms like “process improvement” or “data analysis,” so make sure you’re speaking their language.
2. Network Without Feeling Awkward (Yes, You Can)
Networking gets a bad reputation because most people think of it as cold-calling strangers. But building your network doesn’t have to be cringey or transactional. Instead, think of it as reconnecting with people who can give you fresh perspectives and maybe even open doors to new opportunities.
How to Start Networking Today:
- Message former colleagues or classmates:
“Hey [Name], I saw you’re working in [industry/company]. I’d love to hear how things are going—are you free for a quick coffee or Zoom chat?” - Comment on LinkedIn posts from industry leaders or peers to stay visible in your field.
- Join virtual industry events and webinars—you never know who you’ll meet.
3. Tired of the Same Old Job? Maybe It’s Time for a Career Pivot
Feeling uninspired at work doesn’t always mean you need to switch industries entirely—it might just mean you need a role that better matches your strengths and values. Instead of staying stuck in a role that drains you, take time to explore what a pivot could look like.
Steps to Explore a Career Pivot:
- List out what you enjoy most and least about your role. For example:
- Enjoys: Working with data, improving processes, mentoring others.
- Dislikes: Long hours of client-facing work, limited autonomy.
- Research adjacent roles: If you love problem-solving but hate public speaking, you might thrive in a data-driven operations role rather than client consulting.
- Talk to someone who’s already made the change: Reach out to professionals in the role you’re interested in and ask for 10-15 minutes of their time to learn about their transition.
4. Don’t Wait Until You’re Miserable—Talk to a Recruiter for Job Search Inspiration
Recruiters aren’t just there for last-minute job moves—they can be invaluable career partners. They know what’s happening in the market, which companies are hiring, and what roles might be a fit for you. Even a quick chat with a recruiter can give you:
- A reality check on what roles are in demand and salary expectations.
- Hidden job opportunities—many roles never make it to job boards but are filled through recruitment networks.
- Tailored advice on your CV and interview preparation.
Action Step: If you’re considering a new role, don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed. Reach out to a recruiter and let them guide you through your options—you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
FAQs for Professionals Considering a Career Move
Q: What if I don’t know what my next career step should be?
A: Start by listing your skills and passions—what energises you and what drains you? Once you’ve identified some patterns, speak to a recruiter or mentor who can help match your strengths to potential roles.
Q: How do I stay motivated during a long job search?
A: Break the process into smaller steps. Instead of trying to apply for 20 jobs in one day, focus on perfecting your CV for 2-3 high-quality applications. Track your wins, like landing an interview or making a new connection, to stay encouraged.
Q: How can I stay positive when I’m surrounded by job comparison on LinkedIn?
A: Mute the noise. Remember, LinkedIn is a highlight reel—people rarely share their setbacks. Focus on your unique journey and remind yourself that progress isn’t always linear.
Turn Blue Monday into Your Motivation
Feeling stuck at work in January doesn’t have to be the start of a downward spiral. Instead, use it as a sign that it’s time to reflect, refresh, and take steps toward a role that excites and challenges you. Whether you start by updating your CV, rekindling your network, or speaking with a recruiter, every small action builds momentum.
