ORIGINALLY POSTED: 3/12/2024

 March is here, which means spring is on our doorstep. As the season changes and the world begins to awaken from its cold, quiet slumber, we too find ourselves reenergized. We may set our goals in January, but spring is a perfect time to start new habits and projects. Here are some tips for shaking off those winter blues and springing into a new creative season with positivity and focus.

1. Clean your space - It is time to clear the clutter! Having a tidy space actually decreases your cortisol levels according to Harvard Business Review. This leads to lowered stress and anxiety and an increased sense of motivation and focus. Get rid of what you do not need, tidy up that mess to allow room for your ideas to bloom. 

2. Play with Color - This can be done in ALOT of different ways. You know that room you just decluttered? Give it a refresh with cheerfully colored spring decorations to brighten your space. This can also apply to your creative hobbies or projects. Use bright colors like reds, yellows, and oranges to stimulate energy and happiness. Check out mhanational.org to see how colors impact your emotions and use it to your advantage.

3. Get Back To Nature - Grab your jacket and shoes and hit the trails. By walking in your local park or nature trails, you can disconnect from the overstimulation of the current world. Additionally, taking in fresh air and soaking in the sun for some of that Vitamin D, is sure to improve your mood. If you can't get out in nature, bring it to you. Listen to bird sounds, try to bring in some freshly cut flowers, or start an indoor garden.4. Try something new - This allows you to play and to get creative. If you are a creative, try a different medium, use colored pencils instead of paint or sculpt instead of draw. Or take on a new hobby, try knitting or baking. I found this wonderful list (thank you, Pinterest) of 50+ Creative Spring Crafts for Adults if you need a few ideas. 

5. Surround yourself with other creatives - Take an art class, visit a museum, or go see a play! I like to check out the city's local event calendar to see what is happening in my area. This can motivate your creative endeavors and a pleasant reminder of the gifts and talents you can offer the world.6. Set Deadlines - As fulfilling as it is to start projects, it is also important to finish them. With the all the new ideas and projects you may begin this spring it is easy to get lost in it all. Set deadlines to ensure you accomplish those tasks and have a productive season. 

7. Listen to motivational music - If the novelty of a new project wears off and you become bored, turn up the tunes. I saw some great advice on listening to music while working. Before you start working, listen to upbeat music with lyrics to get energized. Then when you are ready to work, settle in with some lo-fi music with out lyrics to help you focus. There is a helpful article from Indeed.com about 8 Types of Music to Increase Work Productivity with a list of different music to play while working and the benefits.

8. Show gratitude - Be thankful for the rest you were given during the winter that allowed you to come back full force in the spring. Say, "I GET to do this" instead of "I HAVE to do this". It is a perfect time to start a gratitude practices and harness the warmth of the season.

9. Look Forward - Get excited about the spring and summer months ahead. Give yourself something to look forward during these warmer months. Maybe it is the flowers blooming, more time at the pool or taking a vacation. There are also fun celebrations like Easter, St. Paddy's Day, 4th of July. Having these fun moments of celebration can motivate you to finish those projects giving you have more time to enjoy them.

10. Remember to Slow Down - As you begin all these new projects, remember they do not all have to be accomplished all at once. Moving too fast can result in burnout and giving up on them. This is the exact opposite of what you are trying to achieve. You can slow down by meditating, journaling, reading, or taking a moment for self care. They all help by causing you to pause, rest and reflect. It allows you to balance your mind to regain focus and savor the season.