~Haley Gray~

After the holidays are over, winter starts to drag on. The cold makes you want to just curl up under a blanket and the short days of hardly any daylight make you sleepy. Winter takes a toll on everyone’s mood and motivation, which can be especially difficult while running a business. You’d be surprised to discover that winter can be one of the most productive times of the year if you know where and how to focus your energy.

Whether you own a business or just a blog, here are some tips to keep your business and your enthusiasm for its operation continuously running at its very best during these long winter months.

Stay On a Schedule

Make sure you’re going to bed and getting up at the same time every day. Once you’re in bed, do not open your phone or check emails. Check out for the day and go to sleep. Before you go to sleep, however, make sure you’re set for the day ahead by creating a to-do list. This will keep you from laying in bed awake, running all of tomorrow’s tasks through your mind. If you work from home, it will make you feel better to get up and shower, get dressed, and get ready as if you were going to an office environment. It helps to wake you up and get your brain ready for the day ahead.

Set Attainable Goals

Make a list of tasks for both short term and long term goals. In addition to a to-do list, creating small goals to help you reach each of the items on the list will help maintain productivity and your motivation in your current projects.

Already feeling worn out? Start small. If you feel you won’t ever finish a specific item on your list by the end of the day, choose a small, more attainable goal to feel less overwhelmed. Once you complete the goal, this little win will help keep you motivated and ready to manage larger tasks at hand.

Celebrate Successes

Using positive reinforcement, even on yourself, can be reassuring and motivating during dreary winter weather. Reward yourself for a job well done (or even competed at all)! This can be simple, like a cup of coffee or a short phone call with a friend. If your accomplishment is much larger, treat yourself to a spa day or a new pair of shoes. Knowing these special treats are within arm’s reach will help keep you moving toward the finish line.

Get Out and Network

Sitting in the office gets old and can add to the winter blues. Get out and network. Engaging in conversation, having a great meal, and just being surrounded by new scenery will help rejuvenate your spirit and get you raring to go again.

Create a More Enjoyable Work Environment

You’ll be shocked by how much more work you can get done when you’ve got a comfortable, inspiring workspace. Reorganize your office, rearrange your desk, add a few family pictures in frames or trinkets on the walls, as well as some inspiration quotes. Create an office environment that screams positivity — your attitude about your business shows in your work, and having the right attitude can start in the very office in which you sit down to work.

What other ways have you found to help keep you positive and motivated in your business day in and day out during a long winter? Share in the comments below!