Staying Motivated in the Winter Season
Have you already lost your motivation for your New Years resolutions? Most people quit their resolutions by the end of January. This usually happens because we set unrealistic goals. Winter can be difficult for most people, with shorter days, longer nights, and colder weather. Here are some of my favourite ways to stay motivated during the winter season.
Mind Over Matter:
Our thoughts become our reality. The beliefs we have truly manifest in our body. We need to try our best to think positively and allow our negative thoughts to leave our bodies. Being mindful and practicing mindful movements can train our brain to get better at thinking positively. These habits can help us to have a better outlook on life.
Making YOU time/Selfcare:
Taking time for yourself and not feeling guilty about it is the best thing you can do for your mental health. I find even small selfcare habits like doing my face routine at night, always make me feel good the next morning: to wake up refreshed. Or to have someone else care for your skin, when you just need a break, consider booking yourself in for a facial! On the other hand, your feet take you around all day and carry your weight. Treat yourself to a pedicure, and your feet will thank you!
Starting the Day Off Right:
I know we all have a different opinion on what the best way to start our day is. However, there are scientific studies saying taking control of the first 30 to120 minutes of your morning can definitely impact how your day will go. Starting your day off by planning ahead, getting natural sunlight, avoiding your phone and moving first thing can help you stay motivated for the rest of your day. I find the days I walk first thing in the morning I have way more energy all day long!
Planning Ahead:
Decide when you are planning on making your goal happen. Be consistent with your goals and eventually they will become a daily habit. It is proven that habits take 21 days to become part of your daily routine. Be organized; set out your gym clothes the night before or plan your meals for the week. I always find this helps me to stay on track.
Set Small Goals:
Setting small, achievable goals will help you stick to your resolution. Be very specific on your new goals and define exactly what you want- like deciding to walk half an hour a day 3x a week, instead of just saying “I want to lose weight.” Avoid the all- or- nothing mindset, as it often leads to giving up completely. Be patient with yourself, things take time!
Gratitude/ Journaling:
This is one of my favourite morning habits, which starts my day off right. Practicing gratitude daily is proven to strengthen neutral pathways to promote positive thinking. Writing down things you are grateful for can make you more aware of the small pleasures in life, which we tend to take for granted. Here are some awesome benefits of gratitude: improves physical health, improves sleep, enhances self-esteem, improves mental strength, and reduces aggression. Journaling about the progression of your goal can help you to be more aware of how far you have come!
I hope this helps you to stay motivated for the rest of the winter season. There are only 38 more days until Spring of 2026, you've got this!