As the days grow shorter and cooler in the winter, maintaining productivity and motivation can be challenging. The transition to the subdued tones of winter often brings a shift in energy levels, which can affect our work performance. To stay on track, it is essential to adapt your strategies and create an environment that supports both your physical and mental well-being.
A key element of staying productive during the winter months is setting clear, achievable objectives. Senior Strategy Manager at TELUS, Zoha Tariq (CPA), shares, "As the end of the year approaches, it’s natural to feel pressure to meet end-of-year goals. Sometimes, we also tend to overcommit to try and make up for lost time, especially if we took vacations. However, setting realistic boundaries and respecting the balance between work and life is crucial to avoid burnout." Taking stock of your energy levels and personal commitments, especially during the onset of the holiday season, allows you to manage expectations effectively and prevent exhaustion.
Breaking your day into distinct parts can also help you stay focused and energized. Tariq suggests dividing the day into morning work commitments, a midday outdoor break, and afternoon or evening tasks; this approach helps to avoid overworking and boosts energy. In the winter, when the days are shorter, it’s even more important to make time for activities that excite and rejuvenate you. Whether it’s going to the movies, enjoying winter festivals, or simply stepping outside for fresh air, these small breaks from work can make a big difference in maintaining motivation.
Moreover, with the lines between home and work blurred post-COVID, creating a comfortable and efficient workspace is more important than ever. Tariq emphasizes the importance of an ergonomic desk setup, including a chair and accessories that reduce physical strain. "I also ensure my desk is near a window to get natural light and take mini breaks to look outside," she adds. Refreshing your workspace periodically, such as moving plants or rearranging your desk, can also help keep your environment stimulating. The seasonal change may just be a nudge to change your work habitat as well!
Work-life balance is another crucial productivity factor. Setting clear expectations with your team regarding your working hours and using calendar blockers to manage breaks can help you maintain this balance. Turning off work-related notifications after hours is another effective way to prevent work from intruding on personal time. "Work-life balance isn’t about splitting your time 50/50 between work and personal life," says Tariq. "It’s more like juggling balls; sometimes work takes precedence, and other times, personal life does. The key is not to feel guilty when prioritizing one over the other."
She outlines three strategies that help maintain her well-being:
Stay Connected: Engage in social activities, explore new experiences, and maintain strong connections with friends and family.
Prioritize Well-being: Focus on your physical and mental health by ensuring proper sleep, maintaining consistent routines, and partaking in regular physical activity.
Utilize Resources: Take full advantage of the well-being services provided by your workplace.
Overall, balance is the magic ingredient in having a rewarding winter and ensuring that the colder months become an opportunity for growth. As the days shift into a new rhythm, working with intention can be a catalyst for true renewal and professional development!