Lack of Motivation as Winter Approaches: Understanding And Countering This Phenomenon

As winter approaches, many people experience a lack of motivation. This is often linked to the gloomy weather, increased darkness, and physiological changes that occur at this time of year. However, understanding the causes and exploring solutions can help mitigate these effects and maintain personal and professional balance.

Factors contributing to a lack of motivation

1. Decreased natural light
   • The change to winter time reduces the hours of sunlight. This can disrupt our biological clock and affect the production of melatonin, the hormone linked to sleep. In addition, the secretion of seratonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood and motivation, is also influenced. According to Boulos et al. (1995), these changes directly influence our energy and motivation levels.
2. The psychological burden of gray days
   • Grey skies and gloomy weather are common at this time of year. As a result, these conditions increase fatigue and can lead to a feeling of lethargy. In addition, these weather conditions are often associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of seasonal depression that affects approximately 10% of Canadians (Levitt and Boyle, 2002).
3. A demanding time of year
   • November and December are often marked by increased pressure at work, such as completing annual objectives and the end of the fiscal year. At the same time, personal commitments, such as holiday preparations and end-of-year shopping, can also generate stress. This overload can deplete mental resources and accentuate the loss of motivation.

How to overcome this difficult period?

1. Increase exposure to light
   • The use of light therapy lamps is recommended to compensate for the lack of natural light. These lamps can improve mood and help regulate sleep-wake cycles (Golden et al., 2005).
2. Maintain an exercise routine
   • Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins and improves mood. So, even a 20-minute walk in the middle of the day can make a significant difference.
3. Set realistic goals
   • Structuring your days with achievable tasks helps maintain a sense of accomplishment. This reduces the impact of a drop in motivation.
4. Encourage flexibility at work
   • Employers can play a key role. By offering flexible hours or encouraging remote working, they allow their employees to better adapt to this time of year.

Why is this topic important for companies?

A general lack of motivation can have repercussions on employee productivity and engagement. Therefore, employers who take measures to support their teams during this period contribute to their well-being, strengthen their loyalty and optimize overall performance.

A lack of motivation as winter approaches is not inevitable. By understanding the causes and adopting appropriate strategies, it is possible to transform this period into an opportunity for reflection and refocusing. Finally, companies, by actively supporting their employees, gain organizational resilience and team cohesion.

If you want to explore other strategies to improve the engagement and well-being of your teams, consult our Blog and Media section for other tips on managing corporate well-being.