Back to Motivation Index Motivation

How to Overcome the

Winter Blues

by Maria Gracia Updated December 15, 2023 Join our newsletter to be notified when new content is added to our website. Winter. It’s cold. It’s dark. It’s damp. Many of us feel more lethargic, moody, and “down in the dumps” this time of the year. If you’re feeling this way, this is very common and these feelings are felt by many people during this season. Here are 5 ways to perk up and overcome the winter blues. 1. Do something for someone else. Take the focus off of you and put it on someone else--someone who truly needs it. Help a neighbor who may be in need. Bring flowers to a friend who is going through a rough time. Volunteer at your child’s school or at church. Write a thank you letter to a local business in appreciation for all they do. 2. Get moving. The last thing you should do when you’re feeling down is to plop on the couch and watch TV. Instead, get moving. Take Zumba or Yoga classes. Go swimming somewhere indoors with your spouse. Go bowling. Go for an after-dinner walk. 3. Go outdoors. Yes, in many places right now, it’s cold outside. That’s okay. Dress warm and go outside for at least a few minutes every day. Build a snowman with your kids or grandkids. Step outside your door and look (really look) at an icicle or a cardinal perched on a snow- covered tree. At the very least, open your curtains/shades and let the light inside. Light is life. 4. Start a new project. Whether you work on creating a quilt, plan for a warm weather vacation, or organize your bathroom, starting a new project will keep your mind and body energized. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. 5. Wear something nice and bright.  Don’t put on those old, torn sweatpants that you wouldn’t be caught dead in if a friend was stopping by. Dress nice! It could be casual, but something that makes you look and feel great when you’re wearing it. Also, opt for bright, cheery colors, rather than neutrals. Back to Motivation Index