You woke up today feeling the weight of the world on your chest. The to-do list stares back at you, but getting out of bed is impossible. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
The Pressure to Perform
This time of year, the world demands that we hit the ground running. Resolutions, goal-setting, and “New Year, New Me” mantras flood our social media feeds, piling on the pressure to perform.
For those of us navigating trauma, productivity often takes on a different shape. It’s about redefining what “success” looks like—especially during triggering seasons.
But what if this pressure isn’t aligned with how we’re meant to live? Nature itself shows us another way. Winter is a time of stillness, reflection, and rest—a season of conserving energy and preparing for new growth.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” This truth invites us to align with the natural rhythm of life rather than forcing ourselves to bloom when the season calls for rest.
When society demands that we perform, it can feel impossible to honor what our mind and body genuinely need. But productivity doesn’t have to look like ticking off every box on a list—especially when trauma enters the picture.
Redefining Productivity
For years, I felt shame when trauma triggers slowed me down. I’d judge myself harshly for not keeping up with life, let alone my goals or to-do lists. But I’ve learned that some seasons call for gentleness, not grit. Productivity during these moments might look like this:
• Taking a shower.
• Preparing a simple meal and eating it.
• Spending a moment in prayer or gratitude.
• Resting, even when your mind tells you to “do more.”
These small acts are not failures or “falling behind.” They are acts of resilience.
Jesus himself said in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Rest isn’t just a pause; it’s a gift and a necessity.
Returning to Nature’s Rhythm
Historically, the new year wasn’t celebrated in January—it was tied to spring, a season of rebirth and renewal. This makes sense. The energy of spring inspires growth and action, while winter is a natural time to slow down.
Winter’s stillness mirrors the quiet within us, calling us to pause and prepare for the vibrant energy of spring. Just as trees conserve energy and roots grow deeper underground, your healing happens in ways unseen.
Trying to force growth in winter can leave us feeling disconnected and defeated. Instead, we can focus on planting seeds of self-care and healing now, trusting that they will bloom in time. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Practical Steps for Gentle Productivity
When you’re navigating trauma triggers or simply feeling overwhelmed, try these small but meaningful steps:
1. Create a “Bare Minimum” Checklist: Write down the most essential tasks for your day—shower, eat, breathe—and celebrate each one as a victory.
• For example, take a sip of water, step outside for two minutes, say a quick prayer. It’s okay if these are the only things you are able to do today.
2. Align with Rest: Take a break from external pressures and focus on what restores you, whether it’s quiet prayer, journaling, or sitting in the sunlight.
• Spend five minutes journaling what you want to nurture in yourself as the year progresses. This tiny act plants seeds of intention for the future.
3. Speak Kindly to Yourself: Replace self-criticism with affirmations, such as, “I am doing my best in this moment.”
4. Honor the Season: Recognize that rest is not wasted time. It’s preparation for growth.
• Ask yourself, “What would it look like to show me grace today?” Write down one kind thing you can do for yourself, no matter how small.
Hope in the Slow Seasons
If you’re feeling the weight of this season, let this be your reminder: slowing down is not failure. It’s healing. Every small act of care you give yourself is a step toward renewal.
The earth will awaken again in spring, and so will you. Until then, trust the process. Trust the Creator who designed the seasons and holds you through them all.
Isaiah 40:31 promises, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
You’re not just surviving, you are nurturing the roots of future growth. Trust that spring will come, and your strength will bloom anew with it.
Reader Reflection:
What would it look like to show yourself grace today? What seeds can you plant now, knowing they will bloom in time? Write down one small act of kindness you can do for yourself today, and let that be enough.
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