In central Indiana, it gets dark before 6 p.m. in the wintertime, making it more difficult to stick to your routines. You may be more tempted to skip your walk or workout and order takeout instead of cooking dinner. While there’s no harm in embracing a season of rest and renewal, we all still have to stick to our routines to some extent, so here are a few ways to make that easier.
Keep your alarm consistent
You might be tempted to hit the snooze button when you know it’s cold and dreary outside, but experts say prolonging your wake-up routine will only leave you rushed and scattered for the rest of the day.
Get some natural light
Throwing open the shades and letting in some natural light is proven to give you a mental and physical boost. If it’s not too cold, you could even step outside with your coffee and let the sun hit your face. If you find just getting out of bed is a struggle, consider some lighter window treatments for the winter so that you’ll have the help of that early sunrise.
Don’t skip breakfast
Again, sleeping in and rushing out the door without breakfast doesn’t put you on sound footing for the rest of your day. Get up with plenty of time to have a few bites. Just like the sun coming in through your window gives you a mental boost, your breakfast will help boost your energy levels and alertness.
Plan your to-do list
Some planning or journaling in the morning is a great way to get into a productive mindset, especially when you’re feeling stressed or unmotivated. If you’re not experienced in journaling, not to worry– here are a few easy prompts!
List the top 3 to 5 things you need to accomplish today.
List a few things that are stressing you out that you can control, and a few things you can’t.
List five things that you’re grateful for, or that make you happy.
What would the perfect day look like for you?
Acknowledge your limitations
To-do lists and alarms are terrific, but it’s also important to acknowledge your limitations. If you need to swap some activities and routines around because you can no longer accomplish them in the dark, that’s terrific! Likewise, if you realize a task is no longer feasible at 6 p.m., it’s okay to choose something different or hold off on it until spring. If you’re accustomed to going for a walk in the evening, try taking a walk at sunrise instead.
Bribe yourself
If a fun routine or breakfast treat helps you get out of bed in the morning, do it! The important thing is to figure out what motivates you and makes your morning more enjoyable. It could be as simple as adding a little holiday peppermint or ginger flavoring to your coffee or playing some loud music and singing in the shower.
It’s okay to rest!
Winter is traditionally a season of rest and renewal, so if you’re finding that you get a little less accomplished in the wintertime, remember that it’s normal!
If this season has you ready for a change, come explore Main Street in Speedway and The Wilshaw Apartments. We offer spacious units, luxury amenities, and a sleek, modern color palette. Plus, the convenient in-home laundry and 24-hour fitness center can help you stick with your routines this winter. Call for a tour today: (463) 215-6195.