How to Get through a Long Winter

So you’re not a winter person. You endure the cold and the snow, but it’s not something you love. And every year come February, you start thinking about a warmer climate. But that’s not happening.

I have friends who hated winter so much that they moved south. Most of them later regretted it.

I have a better solution. Make winter wonderful.

I’m not a fan, either. I grew up in Wisconsin and have lived in the cold and snow all my life. I’ve never gotten to the place where I’m ok with the weather. But winter has become possibly my most productive and spiritually––even emotionally invigorating time of the year. Let me give you some tips.

• Start a quiet time. I blogged on that a couple of weeks ago here. If you already have a quiet time, start another one. I mean it. Yes, it’s ok to have two times in the day when you meet with God. And during the dark winter months, why not brighten them up with some extra time in the Word? Here’s an idea, try meditating…which I blogged about here.
• Start a prayer list. I know, this is kind of like the “start a quiet time” but few Christians actually maintain a serious prayer list. By this I mean a list of people and things that you are going to God about every single day, and constantly updating that list, while talking to him about the things that are on it. You’ll find that doing this will revolutionize your prayer life and you will find yourself in a spiritual condition that you haven't experienced in a long time.
• Read a book. If you are not a reader, here’s my advice: READ A BOOK!!!
• Turn the TV off. There are few things that encourage dark moods and winter depression more than the fake social activity of television. I could say a lot more, but just take my advice, please, and shut it off (then pick up that book).
• Get outside. I know it’s cold and I have to force myself out there as well. But when I do, it breathes life into me. Get some warm clothes (if money is tight Good Will has them cheap) and get out into the cold air daily. If you have kids, force yourself to play in the snow (you might have to force them also). If you don't have kids, start walking every day. Yes, there is snow, and you might not be able to walk as far. But trudging through the snow in the cold is a great way to get exercise, think and plan. And as you are peeling the layers off in your warm home, you’ll feel revived.
• Find a project. For me last winter, it was scanning all of our family photos so that they could join our electronic collection. It might be finishing the basement or organizing storage. We were made to accomplish things and when we do, it gives fulfillment.

I still look forward to the spring by the time March comes along. But I no longer dread the winter, or languish through it. It’s become the most productive time of my year. It could be that for you too!