It’s wintertime and the most confusing time of year. While this season brings you the holidays, warm beverages, and chunky sweaters, it’s also the time of year that brings you freezing temperatures, snow and ice, and a day that always ends too soon. With the often times gloomy and undesirable weather, it’s easy to stay wrapped up in your blanket until springtime comes around. But contrary to what nature wants you to think, winter is the perfect time to be productive and plot your next move.

Sounds interesting? Here are 5 ways to make the most out this winter when everyone else is sleeping.

1. Learn a new hobby

You don’t need to go outdoors in order to be productive. Now is the time to take advantage of everything you have wanted to try or learn and take it for a test run. Have a recipe you’ve always wanted to try? Go bake it! A new language you wanted to learn? Download an app and learn! Maybe you’ve always wanted to knit, go to your nearest art supply store and stock up.

You will never know where these skills can take you in the future, whether they become resume builders, a personal business, or just a great hobby to enjoy when you have some down time. Even if you choose to keep your hobby completely recreational, you’ll be learning something new and have a fun activity that you can develop as a new skill.

2. Make a fitness plan

The best way to be productive is to get on your feet. Your fitness plan doesn’t have to be extreme. Try yoga and practice mindfulness or increase your flexibility. Or dance through your winter by taking a Zumba class.

If one of your goals this year is to be more active, this is the perfect time to experiment with the exercise routines you like best. Don’t let your health fall by the wayside, there are plenty of fitness instructors on YouTube for you to watch so the class of your choice is a just a click away. Open your laptop and get your heart pumping and warm up your winter.

3. Read a book

TV and Netflix are not the only sources for entertainment, and reading isn’t only for school either. There are plenty of authors out there writing on a diverse range of topics. Grab a book on a topic you have always been interested in, or grab a copy of the latest book written by your favorite celebrity. If you are feeling ambitious, read a whole series!

Who knows, you might be reading the next blockbuster film. Reading at least one book a year could be the beginning of a healthy habit and a new way to spend your time. So cozy up with your favorite blanket and a side of hot cocoa and indulge in the pages full of wit and adventure.

4. Volunteer around your community

Giving back to your community shouldn’t stop when the holidays end. Your community can benefit from your time and generosity all year round. Put a smile on people’s faces and socialize and build friendships with other volunteers.

There are so many options too, you can choose to spend your time at a local animal shelter, food bank, retirement home, or any cause that catches your interest. Websites like Volunteer Match give plenty of local options that are in close proximity to you. The best part of volunteering is that it is completely free and you can work to enrich your life and others.

5. Set goals and make plans

While you are shivering in bed, the future might look far ahead but it is to your advantage to take this time to plan for any goals you have for the year or semester ahead. These don’t have to be grand or lofty goals, they can be as simple as promising yourself to make your bed every day or only eating out twice a month. Plot out your plans, aspirations, and research the best ways to accomplish them. It’s rewarding to have something to look forward to, plan your way to be your own #goals.

So turn off your Netflix and give some of these methods a try. Just because the groundhog sleeps until spring doesn’t mean you have to. With so many options to preoccupy your time, winter will be over before you know it!