‘We should all be more compassionate’: Katie Piper explains why kindness keeps her upbeat

The start of a new year can bring a hopefulness - but the cold, dark winter days may also leave us blue. Katie Piper encourages us to be kind, stay active, think positively and practice gratitude

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'We should all be more compassionate': Katie Piper explains why kindness keeps her upbeat

For all the positivity that a new year brings, for many there is an undeniably heavy feeling in the air. With Christmas behind us and the days still dark and cold, itโ€™s easy to feel the January blues. Having said that, I dislike beginning the year on a negative note, and Iโ€™ve started as I mean to go on: being kind, staying active, thinking positively and practising gratitude. These are habits that I strive for every day to stay optimistic.

We should all be more compassionate. A small act of kindness can go a long way and will boost those around you. Whether itโ€™s buying a coffee for a friend or complimenting a stranger, they donโ€™t have to be huge: sometimes the little things in life are the most important.

I also aim to be active and get outside every day. Exercise boosts my mood and itโ€™s crucial to get vitamin D on dark days. The simple act of going for a long walk or a lunchtime run is enough to raise my spirits and keep me healthy.

I use positive affirmations daily. These are repeated positive statements that help challenge negative thoughts, overcome self-sabotage and help us make positive changes. This practice has been invaluable to me in dark times. My book, A Little Bit Of Faith (SPCK , ยฃ14.99), is full of bite-sized affirmations for every day of the year and is the perfect way to start your morning.