5 simple rules to boost productivity during seasonal changes

boost productivity

During the change of seasons, many people may feel uninspired and unable to get the work done as their bodies adapt to new weather conditions, light levels and temperatures.  In autumn and winter, shorter daylight hours can cause fatigue, drowsiness, and decreased motivation, while in spring and summer, hot weather may lead to difficulty concentrating and weakness. Additionally, seasonal changes can affect energy levels, emotional state, and biorhythms, making it harder to maintain a steady work pace. Therefore, to improve your condition and restore your productivity, follow these rules to help your body adapt to changes faster.

  1. Do a general cleaning of your home.

Deep cleaning your home is one of the best ways to clear your mind, set yourself up for new achievements, and enhance productivity. A clean and organized space creates a sense of control and harmony, which positively impacts motivation. Clutter at home can cause mental fatigue and distractions, whereas a well-arranged environment promotes better focus and efficiency.  To make cleaning as effective as possible, start by sorting your belongings—organize your clothes by season, switch to textiles that match the weather, clean your workspace, and add some refreshing details like fresh flowers, scented candles, or a new organizer. This will help create an inspiring atmosphere for work and creativity.

  1. Listen to calm melodies to improve concentration.

The right kind of music can become an essential tool for boosting productivity during seasonal changes. Calm instrumental compositions, nature sounds, or rhythmic melodies help the brain get into work mode, reduce stress levels, and improve concentration. Music without lyrics is especially helpful when performing tasks that require focus, as it doesn’t distract your attention.  Choose a genre that works best for you: classical music can help organize your thoughts, jazz or lo-fi can create a comfortable work atmosphere, while binaural beats may stimulate brain activity. Experiment and listen to different genres to find the perfect background tune, and you’ll notice your productivity soar no matter what time of year it is.

  1. Go shopping and buy new things.

The change of seasons is a great reason to update your wardrobe and buy things that will make your everyday life more comfortable.  Beyond the practical benefits, seasonal shopping helps you mentally adjust to a new time of year, boosts your mood, and can even enhance productivity. When you feel comfortable in your clothes, it’s easier to stay focused, work efficiently, and remain active throughout the day.  For example, in autumn, a warm sweater, comfortable shoes, and a raincoat will keep you cozy during chilly weather. In summer, must-have items include sunglasses, a hat, and breathable clothing made from lightweight fabrics. Studies show that purchasing even one new item can significantly improve a person’s emotional state, increase focus, and enhance productivity. Since the process of choosing new things brings pleasure and adds energy, which is essential for productive work.

  1. Stick to your usual routine. 

The change of seasons often affects a person’s daily routine, for example, in summer you want to spend more time walking, and in winter, on the contrary, you want to sleep more and not engage in physical activity. However, such abrupt shifts in routine can lower productivity and make you feel less energetic. That’s why it’s important to stick to your regular work and rest schedule, regardless of the season. Plan your tasks as usual, without postponing important work simply because of the weather change. At the same time, don’t forget to take regular breaks and rest — this will help prevent burnout and maintain your efficiency.

Sticking to a routine is especially beneficial for those who exercise or have morning rituals, such as meditation, reading, or walking. If you’re used to working out at a specific time, don’t break this habit, even if it’s colder in the fall or darker in winter. A consistent schedule will help you stay productive, avoid seasonal apathy, and adapt more easily to any natural changes. Of course, there can be days when things don’t go as planned, and for example, you might not get enough sleep at night or miss your workout. As a result, you may experience decreased concentration and excessive sleepiness during work. In such cases, consider taking medications like Modavigil and Artvigil, which can help improve your productivity.

  1. Add more seasonal foods to your diet. 

Nutrition has a direct impact on productivity, as it provides the body with energy and strength to perform challenging tasks. Therefore, it is beneficial to incorporate seasonal foods into your diet depending on the changing seasons. For example, in autumn and winter, you can enjoy healthy root vegetables like carrots, beets, and potatoes, as well as greens that are available during this period, such as cabbage and broccoli. In spring, it’s important to include more fresh vegetables and fruits like asparagus, lettuce, green apples, and strawberries. The summer months bring an abundance of berries, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and other vitamin-rich vegetables. By including such foods in your diet, you will not only improve your performance, but also provide your body with all the necessary elements to maintain energy and health during periods of seasonal changes.