The tree is down, the cookies are gone, and the holiday magic has fizzled out. Now what? For many, the post-holiday slump hits hard, and this year, it’s coupled with an overwhelming backdrop of global events. Fires in Los Angeles. Wars in Ukraine and Gaza. And here at home, the inauguration of a new president—whether you’re feeling optimism, dread, or indifference—adds to the mix. It’s easy to feel like the world is spiraling out of control.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait for the world to calm down to feel steady in your own life.
Why We Feel Overwhelmed
When external chaos looms large, it can magnify personal feelings of uncertainty or stagnation. The gray skies of winter and the quieter days after the holiday hustle only add to the weight. Pair that with the constant stream of news, and suddenly, even small, daily tasks feel like mountains to climb. It’s no wonder so many of us feel stuck.
But what if the antidote isn’t about waiting for the fires to be extinguished, wars to end, or political landscapes to stabilize? What if it’s about shifting focus inward—to what you can control?
What Stoic Philosophy Teaches Us
Epictetus, one time slave and stoic philosopher, said it best: “The more you seek to control external events, the less control you will have over your own life.” The wisdom of stoicism reminds us that while we can’t control the headlines, we can control our reactions, routines, and intentions. And by doing so, we regain agency over our lives.
Instead of feeling paralyzed by the enormity of world events or the inertia of winter, we can focus on what’s immediately within our power. In this way, the winter slump becomes less of a burden and more of an opportunity for transformation.
Practical Steps to Beat the Blues
Here are five simple, actionable ways to regain your footing this winter:
- Set One Simple Daily Intention: Begin each day by identifying one small, manageable goal. Whether it’s taking a short walk, journaling for five minutes, or calling a friend, focusing on achievable actions helps build momentum.
- Quiet the Noise: It’s ok to skip the headlines. Turn off the television and stay out of the social media melee. You’ll likely find that your own peace is worth way more than that initial feeling of FOMO.
- Practice Daily Gratitude: Spend a few moments each day reflecting on what you’re grateful for. Gratitude shifts focus from what you lack to what you already have, cultivating contentment and clarity.
- Try a Micro-Adventure: Shake up your routine by doing something novel. It doesn’t have to be grand—think exploring a new trail, trying a new recipe, or tackling a creative project you’ve put off.
- Reconnect with Your Vision: Take this quieter season to reflect on your long-term goals. What kind of life do you want to create? What steps can you take today to move toward it?
The Bigger Picture
It’s tempting to focus on the chaos outside of us: the fires, the wars, the politics. But waiting for the world to calm down is a losing game. Instead, we can embrace the stoic truth that the most powerful change happens within. By focusing on what we can control—our mindset, actions, and intentions—we transform the season of winter into one of resilience and growth.
Your Next Step
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start, let’s work together to create a plan. Whether it’s setting intentions, finding your next micro-adventure, or rediscovering your vision, coaching can help you take the first step toward a brighter, more energized season.
