I’ve been struggling for the last week, with this whole hibernation thing I’ve got going on. I went from crazy-busy-overwhelmed to almost nothing on my plan. It feels really weird. It feels like something is wrong. I was looking forward to this time, when my commitments eased up and I would have space to breathe. Instead of enjoying it, I’ve been fretting. Argh. What is wrong with me?
Deep down, I know the problem. I’m a “doer” – I like to have a goal, a plan, to be moving forward. To sit and be free of a plan is uncomfortable to me, especially after months of intense activity. This is definitely an area for my personal growth.
One evening last week I got together with some friends, and talked about it. They all agreed, I need this time of nothingness. I need to just sit with it and see what comes. This is how new ideas are born. That night, as I was getting ready for bed, this thought popped into my head: Your photos will show you the way. They always do.
The truth of that thought instantly resonated with me. For it has been my photos that have shown me the way, every step of my creative journey. It is my images where my inner heart is revealed, sometimes in surprising ways. So that’s what I will do: Focus on my photography. From there I’ll find the way through this time of hibernation, to whatever new adventures lie beyond.
Beautiful post, Kat. And, beautiful image…Your post reminds me that although hibernation seems a time of rest, internally and inwardly, it can be a busy time..things percolating, simmering, gathering energy. Can’t wait to see your photography through this time, and, beyond! xo
Great shot and thank you for sharing these words. I recognize the feelings you talk about, the restlessness even. But I am sure it will come to you. You are such a wonderful creative soul, you will find your way, I am sure.
Kat,
As a fellow “doer”, I completely understand your feelings of discomfort with this slower pace, this time of re-generation. Sitting with the seeming nothingness. It does feel like something is wrong, when the busyness if gone. But I look forward to what will come from your hibernation time.
so beautiful…I am with you on the hibernation thing and just trusting that what needs to unfold and what simply needs to be.
Wonderful photos, Kat! I hope you’ll find a way to enjoy your time! 🙂
Yes, your photos will lead you to the next stage. Enjoy your hibernation — it’s okay to take lots of naps and read some novels.
It’s quite a transition to get from extremely busy times to more relaxed times, when our view turns more inward and the “doing” is less. I’m pretty sure that eventually you will ease into it – those times of calm, peace and rest are important as well. Yes, your photos will show you where to go next, I am convinced of that. Enjoy the more relaxed time, Kat.
I know what you mean — I fret about how to fill my free-time or leisure time! maybe instead of thinking you are hibernating, you should call it re-grouping! I’m definitely in the same situation, only I have events to attend, & I don’t want to leave my home! I’m cozy… reading… baking… playing on my computer… & gathering energy for a busy 2 week holiday visiting family & friends.
Here’s to hunkering down with your family…
Kat my friend, I will so gladly trade your “downtime” for my time this week!! Just crazy!
On a serious note, it sounds like you know exactly what to do (focus on your photography), and just my opinion, but I truly believe that more than half the battle is realizing what you need/can do. Go for it, and trust me, I’ll look forward to and enjoy every one of those images.
Thank you so much for sharing today at The Creative Exchange.
Have a wonderful evening!
lisa.
When I was taking your online course a few weeks ago, realizing I have a love affair with leaves, I was reading about leaves and what they “do”. The best part of that lesson for me was learning again that the bud of a new leaf is already on the tree in the late fall, and when all is right next spring it will open up and become a full leaf.
What you wrote here made me think of that again.
You are so creative! I’m certain that this hibernation is allowing good things to take place deep within. And I love that your photography will help you, show you the way.
What a lovely post and photo.
I like what you said in the Hibernation post, about hanging out in the centre of the spiral. I am also stopping a lot and trying to resist doing. And waiting to see what happens. Going with the flow and drinking hot chocolate 🙂 Thanks for your gentle and encouraging posts.
I’m very comfortable with the idea of hibernation.
Love your photos!
reading your post an image popped into my head . You had turned one of your photographs into a jigsaw and I saw you sitting by a roaring fire wrapped in a blanket, piecing together your jigsaw – what a lovely way to spend a hibernation!
What a wonderful image Helen! Now, if I only had a fireplace… 🙂
Kat, , this has to be on my list of all time favorite photos! I hope in the new year to take a course of yours…Happy Holidays!
Thank you so much Kathy! I love this one too.
Yes, photography can show you the way. It has helped me to dig out of the gray morass of depression. A little “drawing with light” therapy can awaken the most sluggish spirit.