Michigan Winter means shorter days, and colder weather. As
days get shorter and the temperature drops, it's not uncommon for the winter
blues to set in, particularly after the holiday season. All you want to do is
stay in, curl into a ball, and eat. It can be hard to stay motivated in the
dead of winter, but there are things you can do to keep your eyes on the prize-
Here are some quick tips.
Stay Focused
and Positive - A big key to keeping up your spirits is staying focused, and
understanding your priorities. Make a list of things you’d like to accomplish to
get an overall picture of before starting to tackle any of it. Then, make a
plan. Although it’s tempting to do the little things first, those that take
more time and effort to accomplish are probably the ones that you’ll gain the
most from.
Learn Something
New - Start a hobby. Developing an interest in something new will make you
feel good during the long winter months. Changing your approach to an existing
pastime can also help you stay interested in what you’re doing. Maybe you love to read- switch it up a bit!
Try some new authors or types of books!
Set
Attainable Goals- and Be Able to Visualize Them - You may have made New
Year’s Resolutions such as losing weight, which might be a lofty goal if you’ve
never left your couch. Instead of focusing on the large goals, break them down
to more manageable ones. Some examples
of this might be just eating smaller portions, taking the stairs, or parking a
little farther away from the door and walking in. The same holds true for your
financial goals. Don’t focus on the big,
end number you’d like to have saved.
Focus on saving a little bit each week.
It will add up faster than you’d think.
Find a Support
Network - If you’re suffering from winter blahs, chances are your friends
are too. Develop a group of friends and peers who can motivate you, who will
give you positive support and who will listen
and share ideas. Encourage their achievements too. Seek out a mentor to guide you or bounce ideas
off of. Don’t listen to overly critical
naysayers.
Acknowledge
Your Accomplishments - Don’t be afraid to celebrate your accomplishments!
There’s nothing wrong with going on Facebook and bragging about your good day.
You’ll likely find unexpected encouragement from your circle of friends. Give
yourself a quick reward when you complete a milestone.
Make the most
of the Season - Instead of hiding from the bluster of the season, get
bundled up, and enjoy the best that the season has to offer! Michigan offers a
variety of activities for you to enjoy if you’re just willing to step outside.
Whether you try Cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding,
snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice skating, sledding, tubing, winter photography, winter
nature observation, or astronomy, all are good ways to meet the season head
on. Remember that comfy sofa, warm
throw, hot chocolate and a roaring fire will be there when you get home!
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