It’s cold outside and I’m wrapped up in several layers at this time of year, indoors and out.

The lower temperatures, shorter days and post-holiday blues make it a little more challenging to kickstart the year with the same level of energy and focus you feel when it’s warm and sunny.

However, there are plenty of ways to change your mindset and boost your motivation in January. So far you've ...

• Set your goals for the year …
• Decided where you want to focus and what’s important …
• Spent time organising your workspace for the coming year …

Here are a few ways to boost your motivation and build momentum in the cold dark days of winter.

Use The New Year, New Start Mentality

The beginning of the year represents a fresh start for many, and you can use this mindset to your advantage. Use the optimism and enthusiasm at the start of a new year to boost your motivation and build momentum. So start as you mean to go on.

Establish a Morning Routine

Jumpstart your day. Whether it’s focusing on self-care at the start of the day with stretching, exercise, a healthy breakfast, or your morning work routine, planning your priorities for the day, make it a morning habit.

Take More Breaks

Plan your work hours and regular breaks throughout the day and make sure you get up and move at least once an hour. Even just a couple of minutes to get up from your desk, take a few deep breaths and stretch to reset before focusing back on the next task.

If you’re not an early morning exerciser, especially at this time of year, take an exercise break at lunchtime. Get those endorphins going and boost your mood.

Make The Most Of The Daylight and Outdoors

Exposure to natural light balances your circadian rhythm, which helps to boost your mood and your energy levels. If you start and finish work in the dark, get out in your lunch break, even for just a few minutes. A brisk walk around the block will warm you up if you’ve been sitting for too long.

Spending time in nature is another mood booster. Not only does it give you perspective but you’ll also notice the first signs of Spring are already starting to come through.

ReConnect

January is a good time to reconnect with friends and colleagues. Build personal and professional relationships and provide a valuable resource for support and motivation. Schedule time to meet up and socialise, discuss projects or share ideas. Your network can be a powerful source of inspiration and encouragement when you need it.

Break Down Big Projects and Tasks

Large projects and lengthy tasks can be overwhelming, especially the ones you’re putting off or not sure where to start. Break them down into smaller, more manageable steps or shorter time blocks. When you take one step at a time or work in shorter bursts of time, it’s easier to keep the momentum going and make steady progress.

Add a few of these into your daily routine in January and get motivated for a productive and successful start to the year.

I know I'm feeling more motivated this year and it's about mindset, creating a new routine for the year and reaching out for support where I need it.

How about you?

If you want to boost your motivation this year ...

▶️  Join me for a February Challenge in the Better Time Habits Group

▶️  Get a taste of coaching with one of the Kick-Start Taster offers.