The science of seasonal productivity

Not all productivity challenges are personal – some are seasonal. Whether you thrive in winter’s quiet or feed off summer’s energy, syncing your workflow with the weather might be the performance hack you need.

Let’s unpack how seasonal shifts in light, temperature, and perspective shape how we work – and what individuals and organizations can do to adapt.

The psychology behind seasonal productivity

Seasonal shifts don’t just change how we feel – they influence how our brains work. Changes in light and temperature impact everything from serotonin levels to sleep cycles, affecting mood, motivation, and mental clarity in ways that affect our ability to get things done.

Light, serotonin, and focus

Our exposure to sunlight influences serotonin levels, which play a key role in mood and motivation. In the darker months, lower serotonin and disrupted sleep cycles can lead to fatigue and brain fog, causing people to feel sluggish or unmotivated in winter.

Temperature and energy

Temperature also plays a significant role in our energy levels. Cold weather can discourage physical activity (not to mention commuting), while high heat can cause dehydration and mental fatigue. 

“Cold weather can lead to sluggishness, while heat may cause fatigue and dehydration. Rainy days can increase focus, as fewer outdoor distractions exist. These seasonal fluctuations affect physical and mental productivity, as energy levels can dip in the winter and peak in the summer,” says Debra Wein, CEO of Wellness Workdays, a leading provider of measurable workplace wellness programs that help organizations improve employee health, well-being, and productivity.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

For some, these shifts stem from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by reduced sunlight. SAD can bring on low mood, poor concentration, and withdrawal from activities.

“Shorter daylight hours impact serotonin and energy regulation,” explains clinical psychologist Dr. Kelly Rohan on the APA’s Speaking of Psychology podcast. “This often results in lower motivation and focus during the winter months.”

Dr. Rohan developed a specialized treatment called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for SAD (CBT-SAD), which targets negative expectations about winter and helps people reframe the season as one that allows for rest, reflection, and different types of productivity.

Similarly, as psychologist Dr. Kari Leibowitz explains in her book How to Winter, people who adopted a “positive winter mindset,” particularly in places with long, dark winters like Svalbard, Norway, reported greater emotional well-being and life satisfaction. Rather than resisting the season, they embraced it as an opportunity for calm and focus.

A mental shift in how we approach seasonal challenges can reframe winter as a time for focus and renewal rather than burnout.

*Note: We’re not mental health professionals. For struggles with SAD, consult a licensed clinician.

How personality types respond to seasons

The seasons impact more than the weather–they shift how we feel, think, and work. As daylight, temperature, and energy levels fluctuate, so does productivity. For some, winter offers an environment for focus. For others, summer’s longer and sunny days spark motivation.

Winter thrivers: quiet season, big results

Introverts often find winter a natural match for their working style. With fewer social engagements, quieter surroundings, and permission to slow down, winter can create the ideal environment for deep, focused work. According to The HR Agency, introverts excel at tasks requiring deep concentration and thoughtful decision-making – conditions that winter naturally supports by reducing overstimulation and social pressure.

“Introverts tend to thrive in calmer, more solitary settings,” says Wein. “Tasks that require deep thinking or strategic planning often get done more effectively in the winter.”

Wein adds that cozy home offices, warm lighting, and reduced social obligations allow introverts to recharge and produce their best work.

Summer thrivers: why the warmer months can be energizing

Extroverts, on the other hand, may come alive in summer. Longer days, outdoor opportunities, and more social interaction energize them. The collaborative nature of summer’s social events can inspire new ideas and fuel creativity.

“People want to be outside, and that can be distracting – or energizing – depending on your personality,” says Wein.

Outdoor team-building, casual brainstorming sessions, or even walking meetings can help extroverts stay engaged and productive.

How to manage seasonal slumps

A few smart adjustments can go a long way, whether you’re managing a team or your own productivity. 

For organizations

Companies can improve productivity by aligning policies with seasonal needs. In winter, this might mean offering remote options or staggered hours, curating well-lit, comfortable spaces, or promoting movement through gym stipends or mid-day breaks. In summer, embrace the season’s natural energy by scheduling outdoor meetings, offering flexible hours like “summer Fridays.”

According to ABL Recruitment, companies that formatted their workflow around seasonal energy patterns saw up to a 15% increase in overall output. This included scheduling data-heavy, analytical tasks like reporting, budgeting, or long-term planning in the winter months and reserving collaborative, creative initiatives for the summer when employees are often more energetic.

For individuals 

Small changes can help you work with the season. In winter, light therapy, movement breaks, and cozy workspaces can help fight off sluggishness. In summer, block focus time early in the day, take short outdoor breaks to recharge, and stay hydrated. 

Weather and seasonal changes influence energy, focus, and productivity. Adapting workspaces, schedules, and expectations to align with seasonal conditions – and recognizing when different personality types thrive – can help individuals and teams stay productive all year round.