Here’s How to Shake It Off and Get Your Spark Back

Winter. It’s dark. It’s cold. It’s grey. And for many of us, it’s the season of feeling sluggish, unmotivated, and just a little… meh. If you’re finding it hard to stay positive and on track when the days feel never-ending (but somehow also way too short), you’re not alone.

But here’s the good news: winter doesn’t last forever, and there are ways to stop it from dragging you down. So, if you’re tired of feeling stuck in a seasonal slump, let’s talk about how to turn things around, boost your motivation, and find a little joy—even when the weather is doing its best to suck the life out of you.

1. Own Your Feelings (Without Letting Them Own You)

First things first—acknowledge that winter can be tough. No toxic positivity here; it’s okay to feel a little off when the world outside looks like a dreary, wet sponge. But instead of pretending you’re fine or beating yourself up for feeling low, take a moment to check in with yourself.

Ask yourself: What is it about winter that’s making things harder? Is it the lack of sunlight? The shorter days? The fact that you haven’t felt warm since October? Identifying the why behind your mood can help you figure out what you actually need to feel better.

And remember: winter is just a season, not a life sentence.

2. Lock In a Routine That Works for YOU

When motivation dips, routines can be the first to go. And before you know it, you’re waking up at weird hours, skipping meals, and living in a never-ending cycle of just one more episode on Netflix.

Time to take back control. Create a simple winter routine that gives you structure without making you feel like a robot:

• Morning rituals that don’t suck: Start the day with something that actually makes you feel good—a warm drink, five minutes of stretching, a playlist that wakes you up without making you want to throw your phone out the window.
• Move your body (even if you don’t feel like it): You don’t have to go full gym rat, but sitting still all day won’t do your mood any favours. A brisk walk, a quick stretch, or even dancing like a lunatic in your living room—just move.
• Eat like you give a damn: Comfort food is great, but if you’re living off nothing but beige carbs, your energy levels are going to tank. Balance it out with hearty, warming meals that actually fuel you.
• Respect your need for rest: You will need more sleep in winter—it’s natural. Honour that, but don’t let yourself slip into full-on hibernation mode.

3. Get Outside—Yes, Even When It’s Miserable

When it’s cold, damp, and generally unpleasant, the last thing you want to do is go outside. But honestly? Fresh air and daylight work wonders for your brain. Even 10 minutes of natural light can boost your mood, help regulate your sleep, and remind you that the world does still exist beyond your four walls.

So bundle up, get outside, and breathe in some of that fresh, crisp air. You’ll thank yourself later.

4. Ditch the Overwhelm—Set Small, Doable Goals

Winter has a way of making even the smallest tasks feel monumental. Instead of drowning in an endless to-do list, break things down into tiny, achievable steps.

• Feeling stuck on a big project? Just start with one tiny action.
• House a mess? Pick one thing to tidy.
• Haven’t exercised in weeks? Try five minutes. Just five.

The key is momentum. Small wins add up, and before you know it, you’re back in the game.

5. Find Your People (and Actually Talk to Them)

Winter can feel isolating—especially when the weather makes it way too easy to cancel plans and retreat into a cocoon of blankets and snacks. But staying connected is crucial for your mental well-being.

Even if you don’t feel like socialising, push yourself to reach out. Call a friend, join an online group, or book a catch-up (yes, even if it’s just on Zoom). You don’t have to love winter, but you don’t have to go through it alone either.

6. Celebrate the Little Wins (Because They Matter)

Made it through the day without losing your mind? That’s a win. Managed to get outside even though you really didn’t want to? Another win. These little victories add up and shift your mindset from “everything sucks” to “actually, I’m doing okay.”

Start noticing and celebrating your efforts—it’ll make a bigger difference than you think.

7. Remind Yourself: Spring Is Coming

When winter drags on, it’s easy to feel like it’ll never end. But guess what? It always does. The days are already getting longer, and soon enough, we’ll be back to sunshine, warmth, and everything feeling just that little bit easier.

Until then, do what you can to take care of yourself. If things feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Final Thought: Winter Can Suck—But You’ve Got This

Winter can be rough, but it doesn’t have to take you down. With a little intention, some smart strategies, and a whole lot of self-compassion, you can make it through feeling more resilient and ready for the brighter days ahead.

So, take care of yourself, keep moving forward, and hold onto this truth: spring is on its way.