Flowers are blooming, birds are chirping, and the grass is getting greener once again. Spring is on the horizon, but you might not be feeling like it. If you’ve had a particularly long or dull winter (haven’t we all?), you might be struggling to get out of that slump. Trust me, I’ve been there, and that’s why I want to share some of the things that have worked to help us get out of that winter slump in time for spring!
Socialize With Others
Spending time with others is essential for mental health and is one of the easiest ways that you can get out of any slump. Taking time to hang out with or even just talk to some of your friends can help you get out of your winter slump in time for spring. Play a board game, drink a bottle of wine, or complete a craft project together. Even if you are unable to meet with friends or family members in person, having a girls’ night over Zoom can still be a fun way to socialize.
Start (or Finish) Your Spring Cleaning
The thought of tackling a major project like spring cleaning while you’re down in the dumps can be really intimidating. But, baby steps are doable. Start with just a little task on your spring to-do list and it may be easier to get the rest done. And, even if it doesn’t motivate you, at least you’ll have one thing completed!
Exercise is Key
Getting exercise during the winter months can be challenging. It’s cold and blustery outside and warm and cozy inside so you probably don’t want to have to throw on your running shoes and head out. But, getting some exercise is one of the easiest ways to get out of a slump. Whether you take a quick walk around your block, do a fun exercise routine on YouTube, or even just have a dance party with your kids, exercise can help you feel better!
Complete a Challenge
You’re probably not going to want to start out with the 75 Hard or another grueling challenge, but little challenges can be a simple and effective way to help you un-slump yourself. Try to up your water intake, commit to journaling, or reduce your screen time. (Or you might even want to participate in this encouragement challenge.) Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that’s easily incorporated into your daily routine. After all, we aren’t interested in overwhelm.
Brighten Up Your Home
Neutral colors are great for decorating, but they can really have an impact on your mood. Even if your home is decorated in gorgeous neutrals, you can still bring some color in to get out of a winter slump in time for spring. To do so, pick up some fun and colorful pillows on your next trip to the store or stop in at the florist for some lovely flowers that you can set around your home. You may be surprised at just how much more cheerful (and ready for spring) you are when you bring bright colors into your home!
Liven Up Those Meals
In the winter, comfort food is king. It’s much easier to snuggle in and eat a steaming hot bowl of creamy soup than it is to put a salad together, but it’s still important to eat healthily. When you nourish your body with healthy-for-you food, you’ll start feeling better. Consider adding fresh, seasonal product to each of your meals. Even just the act of preparing a large and colorful salad can give you the boost that you need!
Start a New Book
Winter is prime time for all your favorite shows and it can be easy to get caught up in the Disney+ couch sessions when the weather is bad out, but constantly watching TV and movies can be hard on your mental health. Find a great book that is uplifting and inspiring and get started reading. Who knows, you might just find the inspiration you need to achieve your goals over the next few months.
Don’t Forget Weekday Evenings
In the winter, short days make it hard to do anything in the evenings. If you’re usually in for the night by 6 PM (or earlier) during the winter, take advantage of longer days as we get closer to the spring and spend extra time doing things in the evening. Take a class, go to a park, or even explore your city. The longer days can create an instant improvement to your mood!
Get Out of the Slump
Sometimes the best way to get out of a slump is just to try something new or set a new goal for yourself. Grab my Personal Goals Worksheet and start creating the future you’ve dreamed about.
