During the winter, a tree goes dormant, which means that it’s metabolism/internal processes slow down. The tree doesn’t consume as much energy and will, essentially, stop growing. By doing this, it can conserve energy to stay alive. And staying alive is good. Actually, it’s very good.

What does “winter” look like in the life of a career? It is a period of time where we aren’t growing. We are, what I would call, “coasting”. We are doing our work on automatic pilot. Is this healthy? You bet it is. Why? Well, there are times in our lives when other parts of our life is requiring the bulk of our energy – usually around significant life events – the birth of a child, the sickness of a child, the illness of a parent, the death of a parent or spouse. At these times, we don’t have the energy to contribute to our work and that is perfectly ok. Be patient and understanding with yourself. By doing this, you stay alive. Staying alive is good. Actually, it’s very good. Spring will come and you will have another opportunity to grow in your career, but now, might be the time to go dormant. Sleep well.