How to stay motivated during the winter months
Creative Bloq
by Izzy Ashton February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Staying motivated during the winter months can be challenging due to shorter days, colder weather, and reduced sunlight. Creative professionals often struggle to maintain their momentum, but experts offer practical strategies to stay inspired and productive. The key takeaway is that staying connected with others, embracing winter creativity, and shifting your mindset are essential for overcoming seasonal slumps.
Lis Anderson, co-chair of Bristol Creative Industries, emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions. She highlights how attending creative meetups or events can reignite creativity through spontaneous conversations and shared inspiration. Similarly, Lizzie Hutchison, senior copywriter at AML Group, finds that pitching during winter forces blue sky thinking and boosts adrenaline, despite the stress and lack of sunlight. These activities not only push creative boundaries but also foster a sense of community.
Physical activity is another powerful tool for maintaining motivation. Freddie Smithson, creative director at The Midnight Club, recommends exercising daily after work to clear the mind and reset creatively. Even small movements, like attending the gym or joining a choir, as Michael Ruby does, can provide mental clarity and a renewed focus on creativity. These practices help combat winter lethargy by forcing interaction and stimulation.
Finally, experts advise embracing the season rather than fighting it. Sinita Khela, a 3D designer at Wonder, suggests shifting your perspective to align with the environment—emphasizing collaboration and creativity within the context of winter’s unique challenges. By engaging in these strategies, creative professionals can not only maintain their momentum but also thrive during the colder months, ultimately enhancing their work and personal well-being.
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Originally published on Creative Bloq on 2/20/2026