I love this time of year.
I know, I know. Most people think I’m crazy. What’s to love about subzero temperatures, icy roads, and darkness setting in at 5:00 p.m.?
I boldly answer: Everything.
Okay, I’ll admit—the snow and ice kind of do stink, and I hate having to check the temperature before going out for my run so I know if there’s a danger I might lose a limb to frostbite along the way.
But the rest of it, the winter, this time of year? Is glorious!
First off, it’s still early in the New Year, so if you’re anything like me, you should still be feeling all kinds of motivated and excited to achieve your New Year goals. It’ll be another couple of weeks before even the laziest resolution-maker will abandon the effort entirely!
If you’re doing well with your resolutions, like I am at this early stage in the game, you’re eating right, exercising daily, getting plenty of sleep (okay, the truth is I almost never sleep, but I DO try), and doing all the right things for your body, mind, and spirit.
And all that should feel great (hooray!).
Second, it’s cold outside. And for me, that always makes my brain feel quick and active, ready to take on any challenge. In summer, when it’s hot? I feel like my brain is melting, barely able to function at all, so I love the winter for letting me feel smart again.
Third—and I know this will be unpopular—I kind of LOVE that it gets dark early.
See, I’m a little bit of a workaholic. Always have been. In my mind, if the sun is in the sky, if there’s even a hint of daylight left, I need to be working. (Another reason I hate summer—I never get even the tiniest break from the daily grind!) I thoroughly appreciate the winter sun going down early, releasing me from my heavy burden, setting me free.
I’m always astonished when I hear people complaining about suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), feeling lousy and depressed because of the lack of light at this time of year. Me? I’m like the Energizer Bunny every January—I just can’t get enough activity!
So, winter, feel free to stick around a little while, at least here in my neck of the woods. You’re making me very happy.
