Cold weather and early nights can make it almost impossible to keep up with your productivity schedule. These are the best tips for how to keep being productive in the winter.
If you also have a love-hate relationship with winter, then you and I have something in common.
The cold weather and early nights can make you want to curl up in a blanket and watch Netflix all day long. Unfortunately, work doesn’t stop just because it’s chilly outside.
So, how do you keep being productive during the winter?
It all comes down to prioritizing what’s important to you, setting realistic expectations and also letting yourself enjoy the holidays and wintertime! Every season comes with it’s own challenges and it’s just about knowing how to combat them in the most efficient way.
It’s understandable that you lose some of your motivation during the winter. When you look outside and the sky is gray, plus it’s raining and you have been sitting under artificial light for weeks, it’s easy to lose motivation. Just thinking about that makes me want to curl up on the couch wrapped in a blanket and a book.
But unfortunately, life and priorities don’t stop just because the weather is undesirable. So, that being said, let’s find out what really are the secrets for how to keep being productive during the winter season!
This post is all about how to keep being productive in the winter
Why do you feel less productive in the winter?
Feeling less productive during the winter months is super normal! As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, it makes sense why so many of us feel less motivation during this time.
Winter can bring about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) for some of us. This type of depression tends to strike specifically during the colder months. Which often resulting in low energy, irritability, and a desire to hibernate rather than work.
One of the primary reasons for reduced productivity in winter is the decrease in natural light. With shorter days, come dimmer conditions, which can disrupt your body’s internal clock. This leads to feelings of sluggishness and reduced alertness. It’s as if the lack of sunlight affects our energy levels and makes it harder to get things done! 
The cold weather itself can also be a deterrent, making it less appealing to leave the warmth of your bed or cozy workspace. This lack of motivation can significantly hinder productivity! Plus the holiday season adds yet another layer of stress with shopping, social events, and preparations.
So, if you’re feeling the winter productivity slump, you are not alone! It’s a super common struggle. But by understanding these issues and taking steps to address them, you can boost your motivation and stay productive even during the colder winter months!
Tips to keep being productive in the winter
1. Establish a strong morning routine
Establishing a strong morning routine can be a game changer when it comes to productivity. But it can also be a difficult habit to stick to.
As someone who used to hit snooze multiple times and rush out the door, I know firsthand the benefits of a solid morning routine. By waking up at a consistent time you will be able to start your day feeling energized and focused.
There are many different recommended morning routines out there. But you need to establish one that works for you, otherwise, you won’t stick to it. Find what works for you and what you can realistically manage in the mornings and you will have a good start to your day, every day!
It takes time and effort to establish a routine, but the benefits are worth it. Give it a try and see how it transforms your mornings!
2. Create a workspace with as much natural lighting as possible
Setting up a dedicated workspace with as much natural light as possible has tons of benefits, especially during the winter. With wintertime come shorter days and it’s cold out so we don’t get nearly as much light as we do in the summer.
Not only will natural lighting make your space feel brighter and more inviting, but it can also improve your mood and productivity. Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can help regulate our circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep and increased energy during the day.
So, if you’re looking to improve your productivity, consider finding ways to bring in more natural light into your workspace. Your mind and body will definitely thank you!
3. Add houseplants to your work space
Adding houseplants to your workspace has a multitude of benefits that go beyond just their aesthetic appeal.
If you spend the majority of your day sitting at a desk staring at a computer screen (because same), it can be easy to feel disconnected from nature and the world around you. By incorporating houseplants into your work environment, you can bring a little bit of the outdoors indoors.
Not only do plants liven up your space, but they are also shown to improve air quality and reduce stress levels. Plus, taking care of plants can give you a sense of purpose and responsibility, which is both rewarding and fulfilling.
So, why not spruce up your workspace by adding some greenery into your day-to-day routine?
4. Try Spectrum Light Therapy
Spectrum light therapy is worth a try if you struggle with the winter blues. It’s a simple yet effective therapy that uses different colors of light to improve mood and energy levels.
By exposing yourself to this carefully calibrated light, you can help regulate your circadian rhythm, boost your mood, and manage sleep disturbances. It works by using a full spectrum LED light bulb which provides striking intense blue light which is consistent with sunlight at noon. The blue light signals produce the same effect in your body as natural sunlight does.
I started using it last year for just 20 minutes a day, and within a week, I was feeling more like myself again. If you’re feeling run down or struggling with seasonal affective disorder, give spectrum light therapy a try. It might just be the pick-me-up you need this winter!
5. Break up your day with a stretch routine
During the cold months when it’s dreary outside no one wants to go outside or take long walks. That’s why it’s so important to break up your day with a stretch routine. It’s a quick and simple way to move your body and get in a bit of light exercise.
Not only does stretching help alleviate the physical discomfort of sitting at your desk (or couch) for long periods of time, it can also help clear your mind and refocus your energy making you more productive. Plus, taking a few minutes to stretch gives you a mental break and boosts your creativity!
Stretching is also known to reduce anxiety and depression which is extra important during the winter. Overall taking the time to focus on your breath and body during stretching, you become more mindful of your body.
YouTube has some great free videos that I highly recommend. And it’s accessible for any level of physical fitness. You basically can’t go wrong!
6. Prioritize self-care
Although being productive is important, giving yourself a break to rest is equally, if not more important!
Self-care can come in many forms. It could be taking a relaxing bath, going for a walk, or simply taking a few minutes to meditate. Whatever it may be, it’s important to make time for it! Because when you neglect your own needs, it’s super easy to become burnt out and overwhelmed.
Remember, self-care isn’t selfish – it’s necessary. So carve out some time for yourself today and see how much of a difference it can make!
If you’re not sure where to start try out these cozy winter self-care ideas!
7. Set doable goals
Have you ever heard the quote ‘failing to plan is planning to fail’? Basically the key to any success is setting doable goals for yourself.
It’s way too easy to get bogged down day-to-day and forget about the bigger picture. Especially when you are already lacking motivation during the winter months. However, by breaking down your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, you can ensure that you stay on track.
Be realistic. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting unattainable goals. Instead, set small, achievable targets that you can realistically achieve.
Setting doable goals is really the key to how to keep being productive during the winter. So, take some time to think about your goals, break them down into smaller tasks, and start working towards your success!
8. Try using the pomodoro technique
Saying consistently producive is hard enough, and it only gets extra hard during the winter months. Thankfully there are plenty of techniques to help you with procrastination. The pomodoro technique is my personal favorite.
The Pomodoro technique involves breaking your workday into 25-minute intervals, separated by short breaks. During each 25-minute interval, you focus on a single task without any distractions. Once the 25 minutes are up, take a short break, and then start another 25-minute interval.
The beauty of the Pomodoro technique is that it’s simple, and requires you to only commit to a ask for a short period of time. And if you find 25 minutes too short or too long, you can adjust the intervals to suit your preferences.
Usually the hardest part of doing a task is starting it. And this way you only commit to a short period of time which makes it easier. Try it out, it might just be what helps you stay focused, productive, and less stressed throughout your workday this winter!
9. Take vitamin D supplaments
If I could give one tip to everyone, it would be to go see a doctor and get your blood drawn to see if you are deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D is referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because our bodies naturally produce it when exposed to sunlight. During the winter, when we spend less time outdoors, it’s common to become deficient. This deficiency often leads to fatigue, low mood, and decreased productivity.
By taking a daily vitamin D supplement when you need it, you can ensure that your body is getting the necessary nutrients to function. Not only will it improve your mood and energy levels, but it will also boost your immune system, reducing your chances of catching a seasonal cold.
So, if you’re finding it difficult to stay productive during the winter, consider getting your vitamin D levels checked. It’s a small but super effective step towards feeling your best during the winter which leads to increased productivity.
10. Check in with friends and family
During the holidays you probably saw a bunch of your friends and family, and when January rolls around it’s easy to go back to being a hermit. But staying in touch is important and beneficial.
It’s easy to stay in touch during the summer when there’s plenty to do outside, but it’s equally as important to do during the winter. Especially if you start to feel down or experience symptoms of SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
So, don’t underestimate the power of a quick phone call or text to check in with those closest to you. It may be just the boost you need to stay productive and motivated throughout the winter months.
11. Get enough sleep
As the days grow shorter and the weather gets colder, it can be tempting to stay in bed all night binge-watching TV shows or scrolling on TikTok. However, getting enough sleep is crucial to staying productive during the winter.
During the winter months, our bodies naturally crave more sleep due to the decrease in daylight hours. It’s important to listen to these signals and allow yourself to get enough rest. Because lack of sleep leads to decreased energy levels, poor concentration, and lower productivity.
Try redecorating your room to make it more cozy and comfy for yourself. Add some lights, get a few comfy pillows, or add a mattress topper. Check out these accessories to make your bed extra cozy so you can get enough sleep this winter!
By prioritizing sleep and making it a non-negotiable part of our daily routine, you can increase your productivity, improve your mood, and ultimately enjoy this winter to the fullest! So, turn off the screens, curl up with a good book, and give your body the rest it deserves.
12. Listen to motivational and interesting podcasts
One way to combat winter sluggishness and lack of motivation is by listening to motivational and thought-provoking podcasts.
Podcasts are a great way to engage your mind and keep it active, while also motivating you with inspiration and new ideas. They can inspire you to stay on track with your goals and provide you with the push you need to keep going. Plus, listening to podcasts can be a great way to learn new things and expand your knowledge base, which can ultimately help you be more productive in your work and personal life.
So, if you find yourself struggling to stay focused and motivated during the winter months, consider incorporating motivational podcasts into your routine. Whether you listen during your morning commute, while you exercise, or while you work, podcasts can be a valuable tool for increasing productivity and achieving your goals!
A few of my faves are:
- The happiness lab
- How I build this
- The skinny confidential
- Aware and Aggravated
13. Go on walks outside
When it’s cold out its easy to stay inside where it’s warm and cozy. However, getting out and going on walks outside is still super important. Taking a walk will help you get in your steps, get in some sun and get your productivity up! Taking walks is one of my personal favorite tips for how to keep being productive during the winter!
It may seem counterintuitive, but taking a break from work or studying to get some fresh air and exercise can actually help improve focus and concentration when you return to your tasks. Plus the change of scenery will help stimulate your mind.
It’s easy to get stuck in a rut when you’re cooped up inside all day, but even a walk around the block will provide you with a new perspective and boost your creativity.
Additionally, getting natural sunlight is going to help regulate your sleep cycle, which is especially important during the dark winter months. So, if you’re feeling sluggish or unmotivated, bundle up and take a nice stroll outside. Your body and your mind will thank you!
14. Create a balanced night time routine
During the winter it’s natural to feel a decrease in productivity and an increase in lethargy. I don’t know about you but the shorter days and colder temperatures make me want to stay in bed all day and then fall asleep after scrolling on Tiktok for hours. However, this leads me to waking up groggy which leads to being unproducive all day.
Thats why creating a balanced night time routine is crucial to increasing productivity during the winter months. A balanced night time routine will not only helps you unwind after a long day, but it also prepares you for a good night’s sleep.
Incorporating activities such as reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath can help you relax and reduce stress. Try taking the time to do some self-care you enjoy before bed. This will help you limit your screen time while also unwinding for the night.
Without a proper night time routine, it’s easy to fall into the trap of endless scrolling on social media or binge-watching TV. While these activities may provide temporary relief, they will ultimately leave you feeling drained and unproductive in the morning.
So, this winter season, prioritize a balanced night time routine to increase productivity and improve your overall well-being. A solid night time routine is the best way to set yourself up for a productive day!
15. Set your expectations for this winter season
With the winter season also comes the holiday season which can be a super stressful time. That’s why it’s important to set your expectations accordingly. Think about what you will be doing this season, how do you want to spend your time?
The winter comes with dreary and cold mornings. The days are shorter, the holidays are stressful and the cold makes it hard to want to do much of anything. This can all lead to a decrease in motivation and productivity, making it harder to achieve your goals.
By setting realistic expectations for the winter season, you won’t get overwhelmed and feel like you are falling behind. This could mean planning out your days and weeks in advance, setting realistic and achievable targets and goals, or simply giving yourself permission to take things a little slower.
Plus don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the winter season!
It’s important to remember that winter is a season of rest and rejuvenation. By setting your expectations and taking the time to care for yourself, you can make the most of this time and emerge from winter feeling refreshed and energized!
This post was so helpful, thank you! It’s so hard to not just stay cozy in bed during winter. These tips are much needed. I love your blog!
Thank you so much 🙂 So happy to hear you enjoyed the post and found it helpful!