Ways to stay motivated in the cold winter months

If it wasn't already difficult enough to stay motivated, the winter sure can add to the challenging task of keeping that enthusiasm to workout, eat clean and do anything outside of the comfort of your warm home. Some people like the cold, and actually thrive in colder climates. But if you're like me and you'd rather sit in your car or house in the heat than go outside and battle the Arctic's breath of fresh air, it can be difficult to keep your motivation.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep you going during the cold winter months.

1. Do NOT, I repeat, do NOT go home

It's a trap. You convince yourself that your plan of going back out the house is going to work this time. Next thing you know, you're on the couch watching Netflix and your "I'll just go tomorrow" starts to kick in.

2. Set your gym clothes out the night before.

This will help you get in the mindset of working out before you even go to bed. You could wake up early and get your workout in before work (which I recommend), and if you don't choose that route, you'll still have your gym clothes with you for the day so you can get it in after work.

3. Break out the crock pot

There's something about a warm home-cooked meal that just makes the winter months so worth it.

Get your slow cooker out and try some new recipes that will last for a couple of days.

Not only will you have an easy meal prep, but you'll have some warm, flavorful food that'll keep you motivated to eat clean.

4. Put your protein in your coffee or hot cocoa

Let's face it, sometimes it's hard to eat every 2-3 hours. One way to get your protein in is to mix it with your hot drinks.

If you're using a protein powder, mix it with water or almond milk before pouring it into the hot drink or it won't break down properly.

5. Break out the hoodies

One benefit of it being cold outside is being able to layer up. Throw on a hoodie to workout in. The sweat will come a lot quicker and if you keep your intensity high, you'll burn more fat while you're at it.