Introspection: Winter’s Calling
A mentor once encouraged and taught me to follow the knowledge of the seasons. I am reminded of this considerably in winter when my energy is more inward, dormant, and calculated. I used to view this dip in energy as a negative state or even a mild depression. When I changed my perspective and used the analogy of grape vines in winter, I was able to appreciate this quieter time.
If you think about what happens in winter, it is about survival and pulling all the energy and wisdom internally. On the vine, the leaves and grapes of harvest fall off, and what looks like a dead branch remains, but we know that well cultivated rootstock during the winter will produce buds in the spring. It is important in winter to prune and tend to the vines in preparation for spring. Similarly it can be consequential to tend to oneself during winter to prepare for the exuberance of spring.
Often the process of my inner work during winter is through self-education. I read more. I sign up for continuing education classes. I listen to more podcasts. I prepare for next steps mentally, physically, and spiritually. I review the past year and contemplate what is to come.
With this year’s exploration, I found a few gems I wanted to share. Both of these concepts can help aid your journey inward if you choose to heed the call of winter.
“The most important relationship you have is with yourself.” - Diane von Furtenberg
A dear friend gifted me the book, “The Book of Moods: How I Turned My Worst Emotions into My Best Life,” by Lauren Martin. It’s a lovely self-help book highlighting the value in understanding your moods and how to change your perspective in order to see your moods transformed. One of my favorite things about this book is all of the wonderful quotes by women that litter the pages. Martin is not only the author of this book, but also created the multi-media platform “Words of Women” (found on Instagram, Facebook, and her website wordsofwomen.com).
The above quote was in Martin’s book and struck me as such an essential part of life, especially during times of repose and quiet. If we do not enjoy our own company, the call of winter might be more difficult. At the same time, the call for inner work is a wonderful time to deepen your relationship with yourself. Self-care is always important and through the acts of caring for yourself you can strengthen your internal relationship.
“What other people think of you is none of your business.” - Dax Shepard, being interviewed on Brené Brown’s podcast, “Unlocking Us”
I was listening to the episode of Brené Brown’s podcast “Unlocking Us” where she interviews Dax Shepard, actor and podcast host, as well as Tim Ferriss, entrepreneur and podcast host. She asked both men for a “bumper sticker” or “short phrase” that is true and could make the world a better place. The above quote was Dax Shepard’s answer. He explained it is an Alcoholics Anonymous slogan.
This slogan is brilliant. It is none of our business what other people think of us so stop spending so much time thinking about it. Rather turn to what is important and absolutely our business - what we think of ourselves. This again ties to the relationship with oneself. When we evaluate ourselves, we must be able to find respect, love, and compassion.
I hope you find depth, compassion, and internal growth through these winter months.