As the leaves start to turn colors and the air begins to crisp, something else starts to slip: motivation. There is a dramatic pull to cozying up in a fuzzy blanket and turning on your comfort show that draws many away from completing important tasks. But even as the days get shorter, the drive doesn’t have to. You can still strive and drive to stay focused. Here are a couple ways this fall can keep your motivation up and drive your laziness down.
1. Create a Cozy But Productive Space
A clean space is so important when trying to stay productive. But during those chilly moments it’s key to stay cozy while cranking out the work. When it’s freezing outside, your bed might seem like the best place to do your work, but that’s a trap. Try setting up a space that is away from distractions but also supplies you with the comfort you need to make it through the chilly afternoon. Maybe you bring in a comfy chair or a fall scented candle to harp on the fall spirit. Keep the space warm and inviting by keeping it clean and free from clutter. Your brain will thank you later as you learn that when you’re in that space it’s time to focus.
2. Get Moving (Even When You Don’t Want To)
Exercise doesn’t mean you need to travel out of your house to get it. Try stretching in your room or doing a Youtube workout, or even going on a brisk walk. It is very important to keep moving as we gravitate towards our beds during these cold months. Exercise and physical activities increase your mood and energy. It’s a great way to fight the sluggishness and laziness that comes with the dark days.
3. Keep a Routine
It’s easy to let your schedule slide when the sun sets before dinner. Therefore, a consistent routine is necessary to help your body adjust and to keep motivation. You will feel more in control of your life once you develop a routine. It will make you less stressed and less tempted to procrastinate.
4. Find Something to Look Forward To
Plan a small reward at the end of the week to keep motivating yourself. It will give yourself something to look forward to as you make it through your week. It could be as small as having a hot chocolate, or as big as going into the city. Rewarding yourself for hard work and effort is essential.
5. Embrace the Season
It is the season of leaves turning and the air getting crispier embrace it. Spending time on walks looking at the fall foliage or just breathing in the fresh air. Instead of dreading the cold, enjoy what makes fall, fall. Study at a cafe you have been dying to try, order your favorite pumpkin flavored coffees and treats, wear your favorite sweaters, and take photos of the fall leaves. Find joy in this amazing and calming season and take it all in.
During the cold months many students struggle to stay on task as they gravitate towards being comfy. Sophomore, Aria Giradino says, “The cold weather and less time in the day makes me lose motivation because my mood matches the weather.” Like many students, Aria finds that her mood changes with the weather as she feels more motivated during the warmer months. Another student, sophomore Abigail LeBretton says, “The fall time makes me really stressed out with all the new school work we have and some days I just wish I could go home to my couch and take a nap.” Many students feel the same way as Abigail as they manage all the things high school has to offer. Times can be stressful and the addition of poor weather does not go well with it.
As the temperature continues to drop, remember that motivation isn’t always about constantly being energetic. It’s about trying to stay consistent as you face many distractions rearing you from what you should be doing. While the weather makes you want to hibernate, try to fight it and stick to your routine! With a few small changes, you can keep your goals burning bright all season long.
