Season’s Greetings
It’s feeling like the calendar year flew by, the weather is getting colder, and holiday stress is around the corner. Now is a good time to set a plan in motion for smoother sailing during the winter’s coldest months. Reflecting on the last year is a good way to pat yourself on the back for the big and little wins. I don’t make New Year’s resolutions and won’t be making any for 2026, because it may be a recipe for failure, in my opinion.
Life is unpredictable and can take more from us than what we put into those big, lofty goals. Making it through the last 11 months was a hurdle enough, and that is worth celebrating. I enjoy looking back and selecting my favourite moments of the year, from turning a year older to new experiences and starting new projects. This makes for a warm invitation to reflect with positive intention.
With the ‘Ber months upon us, I’m taking extra steps to care for myself to help ease the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder by slowing down, taking extra nutrients, and getting good rest. As some animals take the time to hibernate and conserve energy, I also take the time to conserve energy through the winter months, or really any season's transition.
I consume warm drinks and my favourite foods for nourishment. For example, hot chocolate is one of my favourite treats at this time! I tend to my plants as a way to include mindfulness outside of a hectic schedule. I also ensure I stick to a physical routine, like a short walk or hitting the gym.
It’s important to notice any big changes from low mood to sleep concerns or loss of enjoyment in typical activities during this time.
These are some actions I take to sail through these weather patterns with more caution, which may include reaching out to loved ones or speaking to a professional for guidance.
Are you looking for a therapist to speak to during these months? Reach out at martha@marthasegoviacalles.ca to see if I’m a fit for your therapeutic needs.
Performance is not the only metric.
Performance varies, it’s not the results but the journey there. I recently competed in another Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament in 2025. More than a hobby Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, has become a steady fixture in my life. What is the measure of success and growth whether it would be a sport, a job, an identity circumventing all parts of one’s life?
Growth is not measured by the accolades, the job promotions or the hats one may wear in life. It’s the small wins along the way, the mental notes on a job well done, even along the hiccups because they add to the narrative.
Resiliency is the action that keeps one going for example, getting up for the day when things feel difficult. Resiliency is also the capacity to be adaptive among life’s hurdles. Whether the road to recovery is a long one, resiliency is found in the actions beyond the performance.
Canada’s beloved Blue Jays did not win the baseball fall classic but won so much more, this is an example of their performance exceeding metrics, statistics or predictions. Whether you are an athlete, a sports hobbyist, an overachiever, an eldest daughter or a human making your way, I’m here to let you know performance is certainly not the only metric to strive for.
Therefore, performance is not the only measure worth noting in life, as life can be unpredictable, unstable, or simply, a place of existence.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands? Reach out at martha@marthasegoviacalles.ca to see if I’m a fit for your therapeutic needs.