Do you also feel like sleeping all day in cold weather? The silence, the darkness before dinner, and those cold nights in winters almost convince you to stay in bed all day and do nothing. But winter doesn't have to be the season where your productivity freezes.
Here are some simple ways to trick your brain into being productive in winter season
While most people see winter as a season to slow down, you can choose to see it as your season of discipline. Instead of fighting the cold, embrace it. When the world hides under blankets this time of the year, you need to tell your brain: This is my monk season.
When it feels difficult to get out of bed in the cold weather, you need to romanticize your surroundings. Lit a candle, make a mug of chai or hot chocolate and sit down to work, focus and complete your goals. By making your surroundings aesthetic you will be tricking your brain into improving mood, reducing stress and boosting motivation.
Uncomfortable temperature distracts you and makes it harder for you to focus. Keeping yourself warm in the cold surroundings - even if it's by being in sunlight for a while or using a heater - it can boost productivity and make you concentrate even more. A warm environment tells your nervous system it's safe. Once your body settles, your brain will follow.
Movement boosts dopamine and energy - two things winter can steal. You don't necessarily need a full workout, but a 5-minute stretch and a short walk would be enough to signal your brain that we're awake and ready.
One of the most effective ways of staying productive is by staying organized. Cluttered spaces contribute to a cluttered mind, which will make you lazy, demotivated and less productive. Therefore, a five-minute tidy up can trick your mind into feeling "in control" and boost instant clarity. Clean your desk, rearrange a corner, or create a little winter workspace.
Your summer habits might not work in December, and that's why you need a seasonal routine. When the nights are long and days are short, your personalized routine will help you stay productive. Your personalized winter-specific system will include active mode, deep work mode and a recharge mode.
In winter, energy is precious. Your don't have to give it to everyone. Reduced multitasking, drawing small boundaries - especially with people who drain you will help you protect your energy. When your energy isn't scattered, your productivity will become sharper and intentional.
While an ice-cold glass of water is satisfying on summer days, in winter it is probably the last thing you're craving. In winter, we forget to drink water and dehydration leads to brain fog. Your brain works 10x better when it's hydrated.
Your brain loves checking things off the list. Therefore, instead of one big task, break it into small wins. Each small win releases dopamine, ticking your brain into wanting more.
You don't need perfect work or rigid routines in winter. Instead, aim for gentle consistency with small daily actions. Even 1% of progress every day becomes a glowing achievement by the end of season.
With lazy mornings and early bedtime in winter, productivity isn't about pushing harder but, it is about working with the season's rhythm. Therefore, this winter don't wait for motivation - trick your brain into it.
