The Merits of Hibernation

It’s winter, at least here in the Northern Hemisphere, and that means time for hibernation.
 
If you're in a cold climate, it's easier to see that the trees are bare, but they're not dead. They're resting up for when they burst forth all their blooms in the spring.
 
In colder climates, it’s also easier to create more down time and going within- both literally and figuratively- because the weather demands it. Those in warmer climates need to actively allow hibernation time.
 
This is a time of energy conservation, rather than expenditure.

Right after the holidays, I felt spent. I figured I’d bounce back quickly, but no, I needed a lot more rest. I felt confused, had zero motivation, nor clear direction. Instead of rushing through the feelings of confusion and uncertainty, trying to “fix” them, I sat with them, allowed them, and didn’t try to make them go away. If anything, I owned and accepted them. And believe me, usually I like to figure out what’s going on and quickly process through it. But I didn’t. 
 
I gave myself permission to fully embrace inner rest and hibernation.
 
Doing this did an interesting thing. After a couple weeks, creative thoughts started to come at random times. I started to feel a tad more motivated. And I became a bit clearer on my direction. 

You can't get clear on your priorities and recharge if you’re always moving from one thing to the next. If you’re, as U2 so brilliantly said, “Running to stand still.”
 
But, if you take the time to stop, to pause, and to rest, you can replenish your creative well and energy reserves. You can decide what to focus your attention on. You can become inspired.
 
Life isn't a competition, nor a race. If you pause when you need to, you won't miss out on anything. The idea that you will is a great lie of the negative ego.
 
And listen, right now if you're super motivated and inspired and you’re expending energy, there’s nothing wrong with that. We all have to follow our own personal rhythm. If you're in a period of Spring having already sprung, then be aware of when you too need to step back and hibernate.

​For those feeling the need to go within, honor that as you're matching the season. 

As for me, I'm still in hibernation mode. There are small steps I’m taking, but I’m not fully recharged yet. That’ll come; I’m not rushing it. It’s still winter.