I don’t think we need a lot of reminding that the winter season brings a roller coaster of events that knock at our doors each year — merriment, financial woes, life adjustments, and even a little love and romance.
There’s just something about the winter months that oftentimes presents an opportunity to be our better selves, whether as an individual or family. This year seems to be trending as the Winter Arc, an intentional time to check in and get back to the basics. It’s true: seasons change, and people change. But that’s the job of winter; to help bring the very best (or worst) of who we are to the forefront. Plus, we get to work on ourselves! Right?
I must admit, fall and spring certainly bring an artful bloom, and with winter sandwiched in-between, there’s also a unique beauty we can’t deny. For instance, winter gives you permission to figure it out or start from scratch, if you have to. There are no apologies that winter needs to hear from you about not meeting goals because, well, it’s too freaking cold to commit to anything! Furthermore, most of us are busy celebrating life, love, and making memories in some form or fashion this time of year. And if you’re blessed to get even an inch of snow, that’s definitely extra icing on the cake.
According to Forbes magazine, “typically, a Winter Arc involves setting old-fashioned habits like ample sleep, regular exercise, healthy nutrition, and mindfulness at the beginning of October, so you’ve already made progress before January 1st.” This somehow has been tapped to kickstart your New Year’s resolutions towards the path of accomplishment and success. (So basically, we just pile on an additional amount of stress before the New Year? Got it.)
In fact, Forbes went a little further to include several tips to get your checklist started in the fall, just in time to meet your year-end goals. There were a few takeaways that actually stuck with me. Some may find these pretty basic and easily attainable, while others find themselves in a boxing match hoping not to be defeated.
Make Mental Wellness Your Top Priority
You are the keeper of your own wellness. Take care of it. Show up for your wellness, no matter what’s at stake. As a practice to become more mindful with your wellness and in tune with yourself, schedule in some “me time.” I don’t mean make it allowable to cancel out due to a conflict, but demand it in your day. It’s the little things we tend to neglect that quickly shift our focus.
Set Healthy Boundaries
Knowing your limits does not equal being weak. In fact, it gives you strength and authority over the healthy boundaries you create. It builds accountability to help keep you mindful of your priorities and goals. Don’t be afraid to say no, especially if you’re already at your capacity or if the request is unreasonable, whether home, work, or volunteer service. Most importantly, have a hard stop to your day. It will be there to welcome you with coffee the next morning.
Create a ‘Being Present’ List
Try “being” instead of “doing.” While it may feel awkward, a moment of chill and relaxation can be just sitting there. Doing nothing. I’ve even been able to hear things better and organize my next steps clearer. When you slow down, your body can communicate its needs with you. This could include listening to soft music, reading, or watching a beautiful sunrise.
As a wife and mom, I carry, give, serve, and support a whole lot — for and to others. I sometimes find it self-serving to attend to my needs only. But there is one thing I know for sure, and that is, it’s no one’s fault except my own — not my husband, children, or colleagues — if I don’t invite “me” to better engage with “me” moving forward.
Now, I invite you to focus on your needs during these months of Winter Arc and resolutions. Start by checking out the wonderful features we’ve curated just for you in this issue. We hope you will find these stories to bring joy and delight for your holiday and the winter months ahead.
So a cheerful toast to this season, and many more to come!
Later, my friends!
- Erika Cain, Editor