Winter is here, and while some people revel in the cozy vibes, hot cocoa, and Netflix binges, let’s face it—not everyone thrives when the days get shorter, and the temperature drops. For those of us battling Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the winter months can feel more like a never-ending slump than a season to celebrate. But don’t fret! Over the years, I’ve developed a system to stay busy, stay productive, and—most importantly—keep my mental health in check during these dreary days. And lucky for you, I’m sharing my tips because if I can survive winter without turning into a full-blown hermit, you can too!
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1. Decluttering Our Home: Your New Winter Therapy
First up—decluttering! If you’ve ever walked into a room so messy it gave you immediate anxiety, then you know how much clutter can mess with your mental state. But here’s the thing: Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up; it’s about making space—physically and mentally. A study in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that a cluttered environment can elevate stress levels, making it harder to relax and focus (Cao et al., 2017).
So, as winter sets in and daylight seems to be in short supply, I’m diving headfirst into decluttering—those piles of clothes, random knick-knacks, and all those items I kept “just in case” (spoiler: I didn’t need them). By sorting through these things and donating or tossing what no longer serves us, I’m not just improving our home’s aesthetic—I’m also clearing up mental space. The feeling of turning a chaotic room into a peaceful haven is honestly priceless.
2. Creating a Budget and Setting Debt-Payment Goals: Get Financially Fit this Winter
Now, let’s talk money. Yes, finances can stress you out all year round, but especially in the winter, they can make those SAD feelings even worse. The good news? You can take control! This winter, I’m focusing on my finances by creating a detailed budget and setting achievable debt-payment goals.
By tracking my expenses and pinpointing areas where I can cut back (looking at you, daily coffee habit), I’m taking proactive steps toward managing my finances. Breaking debt into smaller, more manageable pieces also helps me feel like I have control over what usually feels like an endless cycle. According to the American Psychological Association (2020), setting specific financial goals significantly reduces stress and gives you a sense of accomplishment. So, if you’ve been avoiding that budget spreadsheet—now’s the time!
3. Selling Old Baby Items: Turn Clutter into Cash
Speaking of decluttering, I’m also turning unused baby items into a bit of extra cash. As much as I adore all the adorable baby gear we’ve accumulated, we’re officially past that stage. Instead of letting those items gather dust, I’m selling them—online, in local consignment shops, wherever I can!
Not only does this clear up space in our home, but it feels great knowing those items will be put to good use by other families. Plus, it’s like a mini side hustle—who doesn’t love making some extra money? If you’ve got baby or kids’ stuff collecting dust, now’s the time to sell it and make a little extra this winter.
4. Pursuing Attainable Goals: Baby Steps, Big Wins
We all have those big, daunting goals we keep pushing to the backburner. This winter, I’m all about setting attainable goals. And for me, that means focusing on things that will bring me fulfillment—even in small doses. One of my top goals this season is to be more consistent with my blog and social media content. Life (and mom duties) often get in the way, but winter offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and focus on what matters.
Even if it’s just 15 minutes a day—whether that’s brainstorming blog post ideas, scheduling social media posts, or just jotting down thoughts—I’m committing to making those small, consistent efforts. Trust me, taking baby steps toward your creative goals is the best way to prevent burnout and ward off frustration. And let’s be real—nothing feels better than hitting “publish” on a post or sharing something you’re proud of on social media.
5. Self-Care: Winter Edition
We all know self-care is important year-round, but in the winter months, when the SAD feelings hit hardest, it’s essential. The thing about self-care is that it doesn’t have to mean expensive spa days or exotic vacations. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday acts that make the biggest difference.
For me, winter self-care is all about those simple, feel-good routine. Whether it’s retwisting my locs, giving myself a manicure, or sticking to a skincare regimen that actually works, these little moments of self-care help keep me grounded. And hey, let’s not forget the power of rest. If you can, allow yourself to sleep in or take an afternoon nap. Rest is the ultimate form of self-care, and your body will thank you!
Wrapping It Up: A Purposeful Winter
In conclusion, the key to staying mentally strong during winter (and fighting off the winter blues) is balancing productivity, creative goals, and self-care. From decluttering and budgeting to pursuing small goals and focusing on self-care, these simple steps not only break up the monotony of the season but also help you regain control in an otherwise dreary time of year. And remember—small, manageable goals lead to big shifts in how you feel.
This winter, let’s focus on staying busy, staying productive, and—most importantly—being kind to ourselves. We’ve got this!
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is struggling with seasonal depression, please remember you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to a therapist, counselor, or even just chat with friends and family. You are not alone in this!
Sources:
- Cao, L., Li, J., & Chen, X. (2017). Cluttered Environments and Their Impact on Psychological Health: Evidence from a Study on Stress. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
- American Psychological Association (2020). Financial Stress and Mental Health: How to Cope. APA.org.
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