For some, fall and wintertime can be a period that is not accompanied by the joys of the holidays, the gathering of family or celebrating an amazing year. With the changing seasons also come changing moods and motivation. Oftentimes, people can find themselves lacking the drive to get tasks done and bundling away inside of their homes to avoid the grim weather outside. Whether you relate to this sort of seasonal depression or not, everyone experiences feeling dull and unproductive at some point in their lives. While it is unfortunate when this happens, there are steps you can take to make the transition into winter not so blue.
1. Acknowledge The Problem
The first step in any sort of mental health relief is acknowledging your feelings and figuring out certain reasons that may be the cause. You cannot get out of a rut unless you notice you are in one in the first place. Acknowledgment is not always easy so this may take time. Forgive yourself for not noticing sooner and thank yourself for taking the time to admit something is off.
2. Make a List of Things You Have Been Neglecting
When you are in a rut, it can be easy to disregard and push aside basic tasks that you usually do every day. Have you called your mom recently? Cleaned your room? Cooked a nice meal? Exercised? Got together with friends? These are all things that can pass our minds when we are stressed out. Making a list can put into perspective all the things that we have simply forgotten about. Checking off things on this list will give you a feeling of accomplishment and bring you back to prioritizing yourself.
3. Go Outside
While some may hate the cold, it’s important to remember to let the light in and get some fresh air. Go for a walk to get your favorite coffee, read a book in the park or maybe take a vacation to the mountains for some crisp mountain air. Whatever it is, get out of your house and let the world in. I promise it wants to embrace you.
4. Phone a Friend
Think you’re the only one feeling this way? You’re not. Check in on your friends and family. Ask them if they want to go for dinner or lunch sometime. People like to see that you appreciate and remember them. Chances are they are also struggling and seeing your face could be what they needed to get through the day. It is important to remember that people love and care about you. Your support system wants to see you succeed. Use this time to strengthen these relationships and remind yourself you are not alone.
5. Keep Your Head Up
Life does not stop for anyone. It’s important to keep moving forward and remember that this feeling of uncertainty will pass. Make a list of some goals for this season and try to accomplish some each week. Remember it is more important to get work done than for it to be perfect. Do things you enjoy to ease your mind off outside stressors.
If you are diligent, the rut will pass, and getting through the day won’t feel like such a strain.
You are so loved.
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