Winter can be a tough time of year – with dark mornings and even darker evenings, it can be difficult to stay motivated when all you want to do is cosy up with a hot chocolate and hide from the world. But the deadlines keep coming and there is always work to do, so read on to find out some of our top tips for staying motivated during winter.
Get some morning daylight
The mornings might feel dark, but there is light to be found – and when the sun does come up (even if it still looks cloudy and gloomy out), take advantage. This morning daylight is paramount to keeping your circadian rhythm in check, meaning you’ll feel more awake and less groggy. Go for a walk or even just stand by the window for 10 minutes, and let this light in. You’ll be pleased you did as you’ll feel much more ready for the day!
Make a to-do list each morning
Start your morning with a nice hot drink to warm yourself up, and write a to-do list for the day. Include everything you need to do, from the little easy-to-tick-off bits to bigger things like deadlines or the dreaded food shop. You’ll find a spark of motivation that comes from really wanting to cross each thing off your list, and it’s so satisfying to look back at the end of each day and see everything you’ve achieved.
Make some new memories
Being a student, for many people, comes with living away from home in a new location. Use this as a chance to make some new memories – you’ll feel motivated to get on with your work if you’re looking forward to some autumn/winter fun at the weekend, whether it be visiting a market, heading to a firework display or taking a day trip to a nearby town.
Sleep well
With the darker evenings, it’s much easier to sleep well – so take advantage of this time! You’ll be less tempted to go on yet another night out when it’s cold and dark out, and there will be less light filtering through the windows to stop you from enjoying an early night. Treat yourself to some cosy pyjamas and turn the fairy lights on as you get snuggly with a good book. Try to avoid screens at night, as the blue light emitted can prevent you from drifting off.
Whether you suffer from full blown SAD, experience a bit of the winter blues or just really don’t like leaving the house when it’s cold and wet, hopefully these tips will help to keep you motivated to get on with your studies as the autumn progresses and winter sets in.
