How to regain motivation in freezing temperatures

February is that weird in-between month — winter is still going strong, the storms keep coming, and somehow, all the motivation you started the semester with has completely disappeared. If you’re a senior, the senioritis is real, and at this point, it’s tempting to coast through the rest of the semester with a “whatever happens, happens” mindset.

But before we completely give in to the February flop, let’s talk about how to reset and get back on track without making it feel like a chore.

Step 1: Move your body (yes, it actually helps)

It’s easy to stay curled up in bed when it’s freezing outside, but getting up and moving — even just a little — can make a huge difference in your energy and mood. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown workout. Go for a quick walk, stretch for five minutes or find something that feels fun.

If you need a little structure, check out Club Pilates or Drip, the new workout studio in The Laurel. Want something low-effort but still effective? Barnes offers free Sculpt Pilates classes, so there’s no excuse not to try it. And if you’re into a good sweat session, cycling is always a solid bet. Nothing makes you feel more productive than powering through a tough ride with a good playlist.

Movement isn’t just about staying fit, it’s about shaking off that sluggish, stuck-in-winter feeling and getting your blood flowing again.

Step 2: Mental check yourself

While you’re getting your body moving, don’t forget to check in with your mind, too. Winter has a way of creeping in and making everything feel heavier — assignments start piling up, social batteries run low and the lack of sunlight makes getting out of bed feel like an Olympic-level event. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, icky or just meh it’s time for a mental reset.

Journaling is my go-to for clearing my head because it’s like a free therapy session where you can dump all your thoughts, worries and rants without fear of judgment. There’s no pressure to make it poetic or profound — sometimes, the best entries are just bullet points of everything stressing you out or random thoughts you need to get out of your system.

Not a fan of writing? Try meditation. Even if it sounds intimidating, all it takes is a few minutes of stillness. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths and just exist with no emails, notifications or overstimulation. Just let it be you and a moment of calm. Apps like Headspace or Insight Timer can help you get started, but even sitting quietly and focusing on your breathing can work wonders.

And if the winter blues are hitting extra hard, don’t hesitate to reach out for extra support. Barnes offers free counseling sessions, and whether you just need to vent or want to talk through something deeper, having a professional help you navigate your emotions can be so beneficial. There’s no shame in asking for help — college is stressful enough, and you don’t have to power through it alone. Even one session can be a game-changer in shifting your mindset and helping you feel more in control.

Step 3: Glow up (because feeling good = looking good = feeling even better)

I fully support the rotting in-bed, hoodie-on, messy-bun, dry-shampoo-doing-all-the-work era. But nothing jolts you back to life like a little self-care glow-up.

If funds are tight (because let’s be real, college), you don’t need a full-blown spa day to feel like a baddie again. Start with the basics: a long shower and give yourself the at-home blowout of your dreams. Something about freshly washed hair and soft curls instantly makes you feel like you have your life together.

Then, focus on your skin. Winter dryness is real, so take the extra time to moisturize, exfoliate and use a hydrating face mask. Even a simple skincare routine can make you feel refreshed and revitalized.

And if you really need a boost? Self-tan, throw on your favorite lip gloss and put on an outfit that makes you feel amazing. It’s easy to stay bundled up in sweats all winter, but sometimes, putting on real clothes does wonders for your mood. A cute outfit, even if it’s just jeans and a sweater, can shift your whole mindset.

A glow-up isn’t just about looking good. It’s about feeling refreshed, motivated, and ready to take on the world (or at least, your next assignment). Confidence starts from within, but sometimes a little self-care on the outside gives you that extra boost.

But remember: no one’s crushing it 24/7

Surviving February doesn’t mean you have to crush every goal — it means getting through the month without completely losing your mind. Some days, you’re productive, hitting the gym, journaling and checking things off your to-do list. Other days, you’re drinking iced coffee in bed, wrapped in a blanket and pretending nothing is due. 

The key is just doing enough to keep yourself from fully spiraling. Romanticize the little things, take care of yourself when you can and don’t overthink it. Spring break is coming, the sun will return and before you know it, we’ll be complaining about how hot it is. Until then, just keep moving. February doesn’t last forever, even if it feels like it.