Winter Blues, Brighter You: Motivation Tips for Dark Days

This time of year is when the sun sets before you’re done with the day. It's easy to feel your energy drain; seasonal depression is very common, especially for college students balancing classes, leadership roles, jobs and social lives. Everything can feel harder and your motivation drops.

We know winter can be tough, so we came up with a list of 10 things to help you feel more productive.

1. Daylight Rule: Do the heavier tasks during the day while there is sunlight. Save the low-stress task for after the sunsets.

2. Healthier Breaks: Instead of going on your phone as a break, you can stretch, read, drink water, or have a snack.

3. The 10-Minute Rule: Start a timer for 10 minutes to work on an assignment. You just need to start; starting is the key. Once you start working on it, after 10 minutes, the momentum can carry you to finish the assignment. On the off-chance that it doesn't, you still tried, and you did 10 minutes of work.

4. Have a Warm-Up Routine to be Productive: Before doing work, start by completing small tasks like making your bed or organizing something, eating something, and getting fresh air. Doing small tasks helps shift your brain into focus mode without as much pressure.

5. Create a Good To-Do List: Try having two lists to keep things separate and prevent overwhelming yourself.

A low-energy to-do list where there are small tasks like emailing a professor back or cleaning off your desk.
A school to-do list with your assignments, readings, projects, and deadlines.

6. Create Accountability That Feels Good: Go into the library of any building that's not your dorm so you can finish your homework faster. It’s beneficial to have separate work spaces and a spaces to chill out.

7. Let Yourself Slow Down: You need to choose what's worth your energy. Say no more often to people when you don't have the emotional stamina to go. Redefine productivity as progress, not perfection

8. Ask For Help Before It Becomes Too Much: Reaching out is a strength, and people are always in your corner. You don’t have to do everything alone.

9. Create a Good Morning/Night Routine: A consistent nighttime routine will keep you from spiraling. Some examples are cleaning for five minutes every night, making a comforting wind-down playlist and doing self-care nights.

10. Romanticizing Winter: Find small things to be excited about in your day. Treat yourself once a week. Wear cozy outfits. Make fun playlists for the season.

We at The Edge know winter can make everything feel heavier, but you aren't powerless. Making small shifts can help you ground yourself and stay productive.