I am not a big fan of great winters, however, watching snowfall was one of my biggest dreams. I know I am giving a contradictive statement. I and winter, both share a love-hate relationship. I don’t hate winter, but I don’t want to love it either. So, we have a neutral bond. I thus accepted the fact that it’s just 2 months of this awesome year which will pass eventually. I usually stayed low and grounded these days.

Have you ever noticed, the more you hate/avoid certain things, the more get to deal with them? So, I took this challenge and decided to study in Sweden (the country with one of the coldest winters). I am kidding. I decided to study in Sweden because of its wonderful work-life balance, and great education system. But, along with these perks, there come the COLD, DARK days, which doesn’t last for just 2 months, but far more. Trust me, I was so scared before coming here thinking about how to fix our love-hate relationship. Because It won’t be just 2 months ignoring her. When everyone was worried about Visa, accommodation, and travel, I was researching the weather in Linköping. How low does the temperature fall? What kind of clothes do people wear? What are the best things to stay motivated? and many others.

After I came here, It wasn’t difficult at all. Of course, I am kidding. It was pretty difficult initially. But, I was prepared for it. I knew that purchasing winter clothes in Sweden would be a wise decision. So, I didn’t get many winter clothes, but the basics. I made sure to carry many pairs of gloves because my hands are a bit allergic to cold. Once I arrived here, I started to prepare for winter. I took a proper winter jacket, room heater, hot air blower, kettle, carpets, and others. But, little did I know that these things will keep only my body and the room warm. How about my mind?

Initially, I found it extremely difficult to wake up in the morning, irrespective of the time I sleep. I also struggled to be active and productive. Watching out of my window to those dark, gray sky never allowed me to be motivated. During these hard times, I had a consistent friend, my COFFEE. It always gave me energy and the strength to be active and energetic. An initial couple of weeks were very strenuous. Eventually, I found out the way to fix this relationship, and it was to face it than avoid it. I still remember, when it hit one of the lowest temperatures of the season (-18° C), I went out with all my gears and did a great photoshoot. I realized we don’t hate each other, I was just afraid of winters, which I am not anymore. It is still sometimes hard to be active, and motivated. But, now I know the workarounds. I don’t see it as a challenge anymore, rather an opportunity to train myself to be effective during the hardest times. I am sharing a couple of tips below. It may help you fix your relationship.

1. Be Organized and schedule your day to see your progress.
2. Talk to people
3. Go out for a walk/run or do exercise in your room
4. Meet your friends
5. Get plants and some candles in your room
6. Drink tea/coffee or warm water.
7. Take Vitamins

Please feel free to suggest other ways in the comment box below.
I hope you enjoyed reading.
Stay tuned!!!

//Abhijeet

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