For me, consistency is part of what makes it possible. If I ease into the low temps by sticking with commuting through the fall and early winter, then the inevitable week of really low temps isn't as much of a shock. Also, it gives me time to make sure all of my gear is in order and ready to go.
And when spring approaches, I get impatient, not so much because of the weather, but because I want to get my summer bikes back out.