Could you use some ways to motivate yourself in winter? In the colder months we often find it difficult to muster the energy to do anything, preferring to mooch at home doing very little until spring gets closer. So how can you avoid falling into a slump as the nights draw in and the weather grows colder? Try these ways to motivate yourself and make the most of the winter months …
One of the best ways to motivate yourself is to get up early and make the most of the daylight hours. Lack of exposure to natural light can make us feel sluggish and down, so resist the temptation to sleep late. Set your alarm and wake up earlier, so that you can maximise your exposure to daylight.
Give yourself some rewards and treats if you get things done that you want to do. Treats like real hot chocolate or a relaxing bath will help encourage you to do boring tasks like cleaning or tidying. Or just be nice to yourself for the sake of it; we all need to feel pampered from time to time, and winter is the ideal time for it.
Lack of exercise in winter can make us feel down. So get those endorphins going by keeping active and resisting the urge to pretty much hibernate for the winter. Exercise will also help avoid the risk of packing on the pounds due to the type of foods we eat in winter.
You may feel less inclined to go for a run or walk in winter because of the weather. If it's too cold to exercise outdoors, don't give in to inertia and let your fitness program slide. Look for an indoor alternative that will get you moving. You could join a T'ai Chi class, sign up for a dance class, or check out your local gym. And if you do get on your bike, the effort of cycling will soon warm you up!
In winter it can feel as though the sun will never come out again! But rather than get stuck in an unmotivated slump, look for little pleasures to help boost your mood. Enjoy a sunny day by wrapping up warm and going for a walk. Feed the birds in your garden or enjoy snuggling under a cosy blanket on the sofa. There are lots of little things that you can enjoy about winter!
Winter is a good time to plan your goals for the next year. What do you want to be doing in a year's time? What would you like to achieve? Make plans, draw up a plan of action for yourself on how you will get where you want to be.
Since you're inclined to stay indoors more in winter, you could make the most of the time to do something that's indoor-related. Why not start that blog you've been meaning to write? It's also a good time to embark on a home study course, get out your sewing machine, or work on another project you haven't had time for.
Try these ways to get yourself motivated in winter. They'll help you get going and make the most of the winter months. What is your favorite aspect of winter?