Welcome back to work! And welcome to a New Year! I know, for me at least, it’s been a little difficult getting back into the swing of things after the holiday break. Post holiday depression is a real thing – not to get you down or anything – and I think you may be feeling the effects like I am.

For some, winter is their favorite time of year – snow, cold weather, staying indoors. Personally, I am not a fan of this season – snow, cold weather, staying indoors. Saying “surviving” work in the winter is a little harsh, but is still relatable. During the shorter, colder days, it’s easy to get into a slump. It’s worth recognizing, as an employee, that there are things we can do to keep our spirits up and to stay productive despite the drive to hibernate.

Here are some suggestions, both personal and recommended, that can help you beat the winter blues at work.

Make new friends, but keep the old! You spend all day with your coworkers. Ok, you’re not always together or always talking, but you’re in the same building as these people. Now that the weather is less enjoyable, everyone isn’t outside all the time during breaks or rushing out to get to the beach. Take this time to strengthen your work relationships. Eat lunch with new people or go out for coffee and brave the cold together. Knowing you have positive relationships at work will make it easier to get through the day.

Dress the part! This may sound trivial, but dressing up for work can improve your mindset. Taking the time to pick a presentable outfit that makes you feel professional helps gear you towards a better workday. If you’re allowed to wear jeans to work, don’t. Put on those slacks and get your head in the game. Just think of how different you feel in a sweat shirt compared to a button down – you’re much more likely to feel motivated in the latter.

Let there be light! Most of the workforce is in an office the majority of the day. Make sure that any windows you have access to have the blinds open. Letting in the sunlight will brighten your mood and your day, and there are proven health benefits to operating under natural sunlight. Even though the temperatures can drop pretty low, taking a walk during a break can help you get your needed Vitamin D (as long as the sun’s out) and will help keep your blood flowing.

Move it! Speaking of blood flow, those two dreaded words can help with your daily attitude: working out. Take a little chunk of time out of your day to do physical activity. It’s proven that this helps with living a better lifestyle and keeping a positive attitude. Even a few jumping jacks or a quick run in the morning can change your whole outlook on the day, making you more productive at work (go you!). At least go down the hall or to the next floor to talk to a coworker instead of sending an email.

Bonus: A fun little way to keep my mind on warmer times is to set my desktop background to a picture of the beach or tropical adventure. I know brighter days are right around the corner!