Know yourself

Those of us who live in geographic areas with well-defined seasons are extremely aware of the rhythms of life. In my part of the U.S., for example, we lived through a difficult winter and were especially welcoming of spring this year. Now the calendar and shortened days tell us that summer is nearing its end and fall with its burst of rich color is approaching.

Are you aware of your own rhythms and seasons? For we have them, too. Periods when we're completely "in the zone" and filled with energy, ready to take on new projects and finish some previously left undone. Other times when we're a bit down and feeling low on energy. And still others, when we're in a deep, dark cave—when nothing looks positive. At yet other times, we're just tooling along, neither feeling up nor down, just sort of there, doing what needs to be done. For the most part, these times are part of a natural rhythm of life. (That said, we did talk earlier this week about depression and that we should seek help when that occurs. Learn to know those times in your patterns.) Awareness is key.

As Russian physician and author Anton Chekhov once said, "Let us learn to appreciate there will be times when the trees will be bare, and look forward to the time when we may pick the fruit." Know there are seasons to the natural world and to your own body and spirit. What's helpful is to learn to know your own internal rhythms so you can more easily go with the flow—so you can "look forward to the time" when you may "pick the fruit." As people say these days, "It is what it is." Mostly that's true, and you do well to accept your rhythms. When you need outside resources or help, however, please seek those.