Winter Self-Compassion: Support in Challenging Times

As the year draws to a close, rather than offer prescriptions (which I never like to do!), I want to offer a space for everyone to ask themselves: What do you need in this time and season?

So many of my readers are people who are asked to meet multiple people’s needs at once, before even contemplating their own: their little ones’, their parents’, their partners’, their extended families’, not to mention all the professional relationships to nurture and support.

“Spread thin” is one way to describe it. But that might be just a step away from – or a euphemism for – burnt out.

“Burn out” is now a clinically acknowledged condition – perhaps small comfort for those experiencing it, but a step in the right direction.

If this term resonates with you, I see you (and so does the surgeon general). You’re not alone. The last thing I want to do is to create a list of things to do in order to “cure” burn out. I’ll just share the way I’m approaching this holiday season: I’m prioritizing the things I can do – and the boundaries I can set – to care for myself in the most intentional way. 

That might mean protecting sleep or shopping less. More quality time with loved ones with whom I feel most comfortable. Less consumerism. Less consumption – especially of the social media channels and accounts that deplete me.

I also want to offer a recommendation for a podcast that’s meant a lot to me recently: My So-Called Middle Life. At a time when we all need to be extra intentional about the media we consume, this podcast has my full-throated support.

Podcasts are wonderful resources for busy parents, because they lend themselves so well to multitasking. For those of you who are looking for a roll-up-your-sleeves resource that gives space for new mothers navigating the transition back to work, I’ll offer my workbook, Healthily & Holistically Transition to Working Motherhood. It’s full of journal prompts and suggested activities that can fit into any five-minute slice of time you might be able to carve out for yourself.

It may go without saying – but I don’t want to let it go unsaid – I so appreciate you all letting me come along on your journey with you. My gratitude to you all as the year closes. Whatever stresses I may face, I’m always able to find energy in my “why”: this community.