It’s back - the most dreaded time of the year.  A time when the sky is never truly blue, and the wind makes your face feel like it might fall off.  It may just be me, but as the temperature drops closer and closer to that zero mark, so does my motivation.  But I’ve learned that while it may be difficult, you shouldn’t stop chasing your dreams just because it’s cold and gloomy!  By following these six simple steps, you’ll be able to stay motivated all winter long, and accomplish just as much as you would when the sun is shining!

2.15.TW

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1) Make a Motivation Playlist

Nothing says ‘get your butt up and get moving!’ like a playlist full of Beyoncé.  Put together your favorite upbeat, energizing, shake-your-booty songs, and play them in the background while getting ready.  Having fun and dancing around while you get dressed will make you feel ten times more ready to face the chill of the day.

2) Do a 10 Minute Stretch

Waking your body up in the morning is proven to help wake your brain up too!  When your alarm goes off, take just 10 quick minutes before getting ready to do a sequence of stretches or some jumping jacks.  Getting your blood flowing will help you feel more alert and prepared for the day.

3) Treat Yourself

I don’t know about you, but the promise of a reward makes all the difference between me curling up in bed and finally getting in gear.  Whether it’s a venti caramel Frappuccino, a visit to yoga class, a shopping trip or an extra glass of wine, make sure to treat yourself to something you enjoy after a day of accomplishing your goals.  Knowing that you have something fun waiting for you makes it easier to push through to the end of the day.

4) Be Your Own Cheerleader

No one is better at loving you than yourself!  Remind yourself during the day that you are the champion of your goals. Try taking a dry erase marker and leaving some motivating messages for yourself on your mirror, or change your phone background to your favorite inspirational quote.  You can even make an inspiration board (including some photos of a warmer, happier time) to help you keep your focus.  Being pumped up and reminded of your goals will keep you going, especially when it’s coming from the best person in your life: you!

5) Track Your Progress

Keep in mind that even things that seem like little accomplishments are really big victories!  Every time you complete a task that you had set out to achieve that day, whether it’s making it to work on time, sneaking in a quick workout, or finally calling your grandma back, write it down in a journal or on your calendar.  Seeing how much you accomplished to date will keep you motivated to continue reaching for your goals each day, and throughout the freezing winter.

6) Stay Optimistic

When it’s cold and grey outside, it’s way too easy to feel a little down.  But your mood can totally make or break how productive you are throughout the day.  Don’t sacrifice a day of accomplishing things just because it’s cold!  Try to keep a positive attitude, and remember that winter is only temporary.  Watch your favorite movie, listen to good music on your way to work, or grab coffee with your best girl friend to keep your spirits high.  Having fun and feeling optimistic will make it much easier to get things done.

While the sight of ‘20° but feels like 8°’ popping up on your weather app can be devastating, it's important to keep your go-getter attitude all throughout the winter.  That way, when spring finally rolls around, you can spend more time soaking up the sun and less time trying to catch up on your goals!  Just remember to follow these steps throughout the winter, and you’ll be happily laying on the beach in no time.  And until then, there’s always coffee.  Coffee helps too. 

 

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