Winter can be a difficult season. Long breaks and shorter days can cause us to lose motivation. It is known that screen time increases during the winter months, which can make winter blues worse. Here are tips that help me keep myself busy and motivated during colder months, without being attached to my phone.

Stay active

Staying active helps tremendously, whether to the gym, a coffee run, a Target run, or a quick walk around the block. I have noticed that my mood changes when I leave my house, making me feel less anxious and overwhelmed. For some people, self-care might be their go-to to helping feel recovered & overcome winter blues, for me it is the gym. The gym helps me feel strong and calm; it is a huge part of my lifestyle. Even in the winter when it is cold and snowy, I look forward to going to the gym because it is part of my daily routine.

Find a hobby indoors

Finding a hobby has also helped me with fight boredom and overthinking. I recently picked up adult coloring books; it helps time go by fast and it also helps me stay off my phone. Another hobby that has helped me stay disconnected from my phone is junk journal or scrapbooking. This is an easy way to print out memories from my phone and express myself. It is also a fun way to capture special events spent with my friends and family. Listening to podcasts has also encouraged my mental health and has helped to reduce screen time.

Adjust holiday expectations

Winter brings the holidays and with that, the exceptions set on social media can feel overwhelming. I have been a victim of falling for Instagram's “family activities,” “family vacations”, and the most famous “Elf on the Shelf”. Without proper help and income that is impossible to achieve. I have made peace with what I will do with my family and what I will not. Setting boundaries is the primary goal when it comes to adjusting holiday expectations. Setting boundaries is helpful to reduce stress and help be realistic with yourself. Lastly, it is okay to say “No”.

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