How to Stay Motivated During Dark Winter Days

With Winter here in the PNW, the days have just become darker earlier and earlier. I don't know about you but this type of weather definitely makes me feel less motivated and all I want to do is cuddle up in my warm blanket by the fireplace! It also doesn't help if you live in an area that is getting colder and wetter or nearly freezing (hello Seattle!). Today, I'm sharing a few tips on how to stay motivated during this season as fall turns into winter and the days become colder and darker.

1. Start your day off with a warm drink and something to eat.

Now this doesn't necessarily have be coffee or caffeine related, but of course, if you love coffee or caffeine, then go for it! I think starting your day off with a warm drink just perks your body up and of course, warms it up so it doesn't feel as cold which makes you more likely not want to get back to bed. A few of my go-to drinks in the morning have been either hot water with lemon and a touch of honey or some sort of ginger tea (either powdered form or made fresh with grated ginger and honey)! Every time I drink this in the morning, my body instantly warms up and I am more willing to get up and moving and get my day going. Eating breakfast or a light snack is also very important to start your day off. The food will give you energy for the day (or at least before lunch time) and make you feel less lethargic. I don't know about you, but when I don't eat, I tend to get a little grumpy and less productive, so even a snack in the morning helps me do more work!

2. Take some time to go outside during the day time, especially if you work a typical 9-5 day job.

The biggest downside of Daylight Saving time is how fast the day gets dark. At times, it feels like the sun is literally gone by 3 pm and you're still left with a couple hours at work! If you are able to get out of your office during a quick break or your lunch time to at least see some sort of day light, this can instantly brighten up your day and get you through the rest of work. This may be a bit harder when it is raining or extremely cold, so even taking a break by an open window can do the trick.

3. Add a fun activity or exercise to you weekly routine.

Whether it is joining a gym or indoor bouldering club, doing cross fit, or my personal favorite, going to pole class, adding an a extra activity of something you look forward to can help you get through these winter days. If it is a form of fitness, I recommend it being something you thoroughly enjoy so it doesn't feel like a chore or a hassle to get to. If it is something you really like, it can also help you get through your day (especially if work is a drag) and will be something you look forward to. This also doesn't have to be something fitness related; it can also but something as fun as a ceramics class, cooking class, knitting, book club, etc. There's something out there for everyone!

4. Do something for yourself on the weekend.

This can be anything from meeting up with friends for brunch, treating yourself to a massage or some retail therapy, or even taking some "me time" relaxing at home reading a book and having nice hot bath. Whatever it may be, having something to look forward to on the weekends can help you stay motivated to get through that work week.

Those are a few of my tips to help you stay motivated during the colder season. Now of course, there are many other things you can do and I'd love to hear about them!

What are your favorite ways to stay motivated during winter?

-Kirstie