Productive Things to Do on a Winter Evening
As January rolls in and the holiday season comes to a close, a familiar sentiment always creeps into my mind: “I can’t wait for spring.”
While I don’t dislike winter, I struggle with the cold and the SAD that often accompanies it. The dark and dreary winter days are far from ideal for my “after work photography sessions,” causing my routine to shift significantly. It’s not uncommon for the lack of sunlight to leave many of us feeling sluggish and unmotivated, making it challenging to keep up with our goals.
However, each new year offers a chance to set and pursue exciting objectives. Imagine how fulfilling it would be to accomplish some of those before spring arrives!
JOURNAL
Journaling is a powerful tool for connecting with your goals. Consider having regular (weekly or daily) check-ins to monitor your progress. Writing can help clear mental clutter and sharpen your focus. Make journaling a nightly habit. While it may not seem like the most productive activity, it will certainly help you achieve your goals—large or small. This practice holds you accountable and fosters discipline.
READ
If you’re anything like me, your “to-read” list keeps expanding while books collect dust under your desk. Cold winter nights are perfect for diving into novels, magazines, and blogs. Curling up with a warm blanket, a cup of tea or hot chocolate, and a compelling book creates an ideal cozy atmosphere. I cherish the moment I nestle up by the fireplace with a new read, reminiscent of my school days spent enjoying tea and oranges while absorbed in Harry Potter. Nothing quite replicates that experience, though the demands of adulthood often push it aside.
Audiobooks are a fantastic alternative, allowing you to listen while multitasking, perhaps folding laundry or washing dishes. On particularly long winter evenings, it may be difficult to carve out time to read, but this is a way to still engage with literature (though nothing beats flipping through a physical book). Personally, I enjoy audiobooks focused on personal development.
TRY A NEW RECIPE
Food Network shows like Chopped and Cutthroat Kitchen inspire my love for experimenting with new recipes. I enjoy playing music, sipping wine, and immersing myself in cooking. After a stressful day, cooking is my way to unwind and find solace. This activity becomes even more enjoyable when shared with a partner or roommate. For a fun twist, try an at-home version of Chopped—choose a few mystery ingredients for each other and create a meal (with the hope that it’s edible!). Perhaps master the art of baking a perfect apple pie or craft homemade bread? On Sundays, I often prepare raw bars or banana breakfast bars, which provide quick breakfasts and snacks for the coming week.
ORGANIZE
Winter evenings are perfect for organizing your closet, pantry, laundry room, or kitchen. I recently tackled this task and am currently painting the large mirror frames in my room. Next up is refreshing the moldings and closet. I had postponed these chores over the summer and fall due to busyness, but now I have time to engage in something productive.
TAKE CARE
For many of us, work takes precedence. We often juggle responsibilities, whether it’s with family, school, or home. When was the last time you carved out moments solely for yourself? Disconnect from technology, take a long soak in the tub, go for a run, walk your dog, or engage in a home workout. Take a moment to practice self-care.
Though it may not seem the most productive, self-care is essential. To support your family and excel at work, you must prioritize your well-being. Treat yourself to a favorite coffee, indulge in a dessert (alone!), or simply enjoy ten minutes of solitude. Reflecting on past experiences, I’ve realized the importance of taking care of oneself, especially during challenging times, for without self-nurturing, you’re unable to care for others.
LEARN SOMETHING NEW
We live in an incredible era where a wealth of information is just a click away. With platforms like edX and Open Culture, you can access free online courses from top universities like Yale and Harvard, regardless of your interests. Personally, I enjoy learning more about nutrition and food (check out my must-see documentaries here) and am passionate about personal development. A few resources I regularly visit are TED, Marie Forleo, and Gabby’s blog, which I frequently reference on Thirteen Thoughts.
What about you? What activities do you enjoy on chilly winter nights? How do you maintain your productivity during this season?
