It’s officially that time of year for us New Englanders when we start to get antsy. We’ve been forced inside for too many months, and it can be hard to stay positive during these long winter days. Most of us aren’t taking walks during our lunch hours to clear our heads and enjoy the sun. Instead, we’re logging longer hours in the office, feeling more tired, and our colleagues are just as down.
For anyone that struggles with the winter blues, there are ways in which you can combat them in the office. Here are a few tips to keep you positive until the long awaited spring months:
- Make time for fun: Play activates dopamine and endorphins, which are “feel good” brain chemicals. Work with your colleagues to set aside a space in the office where people can play. Whether it’s playing basketball with a paper ball and a trash bin or playing a game of cards, engaging in these activities will increase your productivity and happiness.
- Keep it bright: Not having enough light in your office can cause you to have lower levels of serotonin, which will make you feel more down. We don’t have much trouble with this at SnapSuites because we get so much natural light, but if you do not, make sure to have lots of bright lamps and open all shades wherever possible.
- Keep things exciting: With a buzz around the office, your days will be more enjoyable. If there is a holiday or big cultural event coming up – start a betting pool or set up a secret santa-like game with a theme applicable to the event or holiday.
- Bring in plants: You know we’re big fans of succulents at SnapSuites if you read our blog post here. We are firm believers that a plant can bring in a tremendous amount of light and energy into an office.
- Get outside: As much as you may not want to, getting outside into the cold is really good for you. At this point in winter, your body is in great need of Vitamin D, which may be contributing to your fatigue. Invite colleagues to go for a walk with you during lunch or organize a ski trip on the weekend – either of these things will leave you feeling revitalized.
We’re almost to spring!