Hibernate to Regenerate

The season of Winter in places around our World, is a time of hibernation and regeneration.

We see elements of nature retreating deeply, conserving energy and rebuilding strength ready to emerge anew. ?At times it may appear as if nothing is happening.?However, when we observe more closely and increase our understanding, we realise there are micro processes taking place.

When you next venture out, notice how those deciduous trees which have lost their leaves, such as the Oak and Horse Chestnut, are already forming tight buds ready to flourish again in the Spring.

It won't surprise you I'm sharing this to encourage your own form of hibernation and regeneration.

Basking in year-round glorious sunshine, metaphorically speaking, is quite frankly exhausting and fruitless. Believing that 'success' is singularly recognised and earnt through relentless, fast-paced activity and being constantly centre stage; ever present so people can see you're 'doing' something.

Expecting this of yourself and others leads to a long list of unfavourable results, such as overload, closed thinking, missed opportunities, stifled growth, poor decision-making, disappointing customer service and burn out.

Clearly as businesses we need to ‘keep our lights on’ in different ways, as part of the products we make and services we provide.?

Helping a senior leadership team to think more clearly last November, I looked at how they could maintain quality standards, while allowing this period of hibernation and regeneration.

As a result they’ve put several new practices in place, one being to take on new business from February instead of January, thereby freeing up valuable time to work on business development plans and refresh out of date processes. Only a few days in and they're already reporting a renewed enthusiasm across several teams with some promising fresh ideas.

As you look from this point into your future, and the future of your business:

• what micro processes do you need to attend to away from the spotlight?
• what adjustments can you make to allow time to focus on them??

Joe Mills | Founder & MD | The Tree Academy | joe@thetreeacademy.co.uk