Gloomy Daze

The weather affects us more than we'd like to admit. When the sun shines through your window while working, you can't help but smile as the sun warms your face. Of course, you'd rather go outside and enjoy the beautiful weather, but at least you have the extra motivation to finish work to bask in greatness.

As much as we love the sun (at least I do), it's not sunny year-round. On those rainy, cold, dark days, we must still work, and things must be done. Before, on gloomy days, I was hindered, unable to work, and lacked interest in whatever I did. It's like seasonal depression…but with work. We flourish with light and energy, so days like that can damper our energy, making us unmotivated.

So, what do we do? Should we call out sick on those days? Or maybe take off the month of May. I wish it were that easy. I claim to be internally motivated, and I can be productive in any environment…but what about when it comes to weather? It can be challenging to stay motivated on gloomy days when the weather is dreary, and your energy level is low.

Internal motivation comes from within, and you must be your cheerleader and bring the light when the sun doesn't come out to play. I don't loathe gloomy days because it's typically preceded or followed by rain of some sort (I am an avid gardener, so rain is my friend). On those gloomy days, when a gloomy daze plagued me, I implemented some tips that can help:

Setting Goals

Set small achievable goals: Break down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This can help you feel more productive and accomplished, even if you cannot complete larger tasks.

Lights Are Your Friend

My former colleague used to hate the lights in our office. She called them "sterile" and "harsh". We had abundant lighting in our offices from our large windows, and we never needed to turn the main lights on. Except, what happens when it rains? We used the dark, warm ambiance to our advantage. We added soft lights around the place, which made it cozy and comfortable.

In my current workspace, I have a large window to my side that brings in a lot of light, but on days when it's rainy, the office is dark. The central light is harsh, and I seldom turn it on. I added a lamp for my desk and hung fairy lights, creating a space of warmth and circulating the energy here. Simple things like adding lights can bring up the energy and take you away from the drab darkness of the day.

Tasks N' Tunes

Find inspiration: Listen to music, read a motivational book, or watch a TED talk. Doing something that inspires you can help you get back on track.

I play music regardless of whether it's sunny or gloomy outside, but I tend to play music more when it's gloomy because it keeps me focused and is good for my soul. If your workspace allows you to play music out loud (at a reasonable level) or in your headphones.

Sometimes I find myself typing to the song's rhythms and tapping my foot as if my keyboard were a piano. Playing music is fun, and it stimulates the creative side of your brain, and you can play some throwbacks if you're nostalgic. I m more productive when I can do tasks while playing enjoyable music.

Build in Breaks

One of my favorite and user-friendly time/task keepers is called Mytomatoes.com. You work 25 minutes, and you have a 5-minute break. You can customize the time, but 25/5 is the standard setting on this timer. You work consistently for 25 minutes, report what you worked on, and reward yourself with a break.

It's easy for time to get away from you while you're zoning out looking outside. Using timers allows you to stay on task and take breaks. During my breaks, I may fill up my water, reheat my coffee, do some light stretches, check my phone, check in on my colleagues, etc. Moving around, walking, or exercising can help you recharge and focus.

Breaks are an important part of working, so incorporate them into your work schedule. The breaks give you that extra motivation to work hard during work time, and you appreciate your break.

Find Your Motivation

Gloomy daze on gloomy days is a real thing! Find your motivation, use it to stay on the task, and work through it. Make sure your workspace is comfortable and well-lit. You can add plants, pictures, or anything to make your space more inviting and energizing.

Remember that motivation is a mindset that takes effort to maintain. Remind yourself of your goals and why you're doing what you're doing. And don't be too hard on yourself if you're not feeling as productive as you'd like to be on gloomy days. Just do your best and remember that tomorrow is a new day.

What are some tips you use to stay motivated on these rainy days? Share in the comments!