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December 23, 2013 | By

Working in a Winter Wonderland

Oh the weather outside is frightful, and the fire might be delightful, but we’ve still got stuff to accomplish this winter!

Have you ever noticed that productivity (like the daylight hours) seems to dim during the colder months of the season? You’re not alone – up to 50% of Americans report feeling less productive in the winter, and a whopping half-million people are diagnosed annually with seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

If you find yourself feeling a little sluggish in the winter months, we’ve got a few suggestions to help take you from pooped to productive:

Get active

Get your heart pumping and feel yourself become more alert as the fresh air fills your lungs. Even if it’s too cold to step out your front door, try jumping jacks or running stairs to get a little cardiovascular activity. If you can get outside, use the weather to your advantage and hit the slopes or go for a hike. The important thing is that you elevate your resting heart rate and let the added benefits of the endorphin rush kick in.

Get a hobby

Keeping your mind active is just as important as keeping your body active during the long winter months. Sign up for that cooking class you’ve always been curious about, learn another language or crack open a book you’ve been meaning to read. The sense of excitement and accomplishment you’ll feel about your new hobby can lead to happiness throughout the seasons.

Get productive

Staying warm during the cold months has shown to cut winter office complaints by up to 70% – and that’s nothing to sneeze at! Try setting up full spectrum light bulbs to increase the light, dress in layers to keep yourself comfortable and, when it’s sunny, take a break outside to enjoy the fresh air. Being proactive is an excellent way to beat the winter blues.

Don’t forget, your office might have a telecommuting or workshifting policy to let you work from the warmth of your own house. If that’s the case, make sure you’ve got what you need to stay connected and collaborating with your team. For more ideas of fun activities and hobbies to help keep you working in a winter wonderland, check out this infographic.


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