Getting Through The Cold: Simple Pleasures & Tiny Wins to Beat the Winter Blues

Ah, winter… it always seems to linger a little longer than we expect. The days are still short, the cold is hanging on, and motivation can feel… well, questionable at best. My birthday falls in January—last year it landed right in the middle of a big snowstorm—so I see you, all my winter birthdays out there. Surviving the cold and celebrating can feel like an accomplishment in itself.

But here’s the thing: getting through the heart of winter doesn’t have to mean massive life overhauls or forcing yourself into nonstop productivity. Sometimes, it’s about embracing small pleasures, tiny goals, and little moments of joy.

Here’s how I’m getting through the winter blues this year—and a few ideas you can steal for yourself as we settle into February.

1. Lean Into Cozy Rituals

There’s something so comforting about having little routines that feel just for you. It doesn’t have to be complicated. For me, it’s:

  • A warm cup of tea or coffee in the morning, ideally while wrapped in a cozy blanket.

  • Lighting a candle or diffusing a soft scent while I work from home.

  • Spending 10 minutes journaling, even if it’s just jotting down one thing I’m grateful for.

These tiny acts feel indulgent, but they really set the tone for the day—and they make the cold mornings feel a little warmer.

2. Focus on Small, Achievable Goals

Big resolutions can feel intimidating in January, so I’ve been leaning into tiny wins instead. Things like:

  • Drinking enough water each day.

  • Taking a 15-minute walk outside, even if it’s just around the block.

  • Reading a few pages of a book each morning or night. I actually just joined a book club, so having that little accountability makes it feel even more fun and motivating.

It’s amazing how much these small accomplishments add up—and how much they lift your mood when the winter doldrums hit.

3. Find Joy in Simple Pleasures

Winter is the perfect excuse to slow down and savor the little things. Some of my favorite simple pleasures lately:

  • Baking something easy and comforting (hello, chocolate chip cookies!).

  • Watching the snow fall—or just noticing the crisp, fresh air outside.

  • Bingeing a show I can’t stop watching, even if it keeps me up way later than I planned.

Even these small moments feel like little victories in the middle of gray, chilly days.

4. Treat Yourself (Yes, You Deserve It)

I’ve been leaning on a few products that make the winter season feel a little more luxurious—because self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. If you want to see what I’m currently loving, check out my Currently Loving page for links to my favorites.

Some of my current must-haves include:

  • A hydrating lotion that instantly softens dry skin.

  • A hair perfume that makes lazy hair days feel polished.

  • A go-to lip gloss that adds a subtle, natural shine and instantly lifts your mood.

These tiny indulgences aren’t frivolous—they’re reminders to take care of yourself when the world outside is icy and gray.

5. Keep a Light Perspective

Winter can feel endless, but the truth is: it’s temporary. By leaning into tiny joys, small goals, and simple self-care, you can keep your energy and mood afloat.

Some days will feel harder than others—and that’s okay. But even a short walk, a cozy cup of tea, or jotting down one thing you’re grateful for can make a big difference.

Your Turn

What little rituals or small goals keep you afloat during the winter months? I’d love to hear—drop them in the comments or share on Instagram!

Remember: Winter isn’t about perfection. It’s about drifting through the season with intention, cozy moments, and little victories.