Winter’s Wisdom: Why Teams Need Rest

Introduction: The Rhythm of Rest and Growth

In nature, in the extremes south and north of the planet’s hemispheres, winter serves as a period of dormancy and restoration, allowing ecosystems to rejuvenate in preparation for the vitality of spring. Similarly, organisations—conceived as dynamic teams collaboratively working toward a shared vision—benefit from intentional periods of rest. This article explores the significance of rest within organisational contexts, drawing on insights from thought leaders and real-world examples to illustrate how deliberate pauses can enhance resilience, creativity, and strategic alignment.

*Disclaimer: I have written this article with the assistance of Generative AI.? The process I have gone through is to give a very specific prompt of the metaphor I use of #OrganisationalGardening and the different authors I have been influenced by and a definition of organisational development and the system thinking approach I have adopted.? With this information I asked AI to generate an outline of potential posts for the following 12 weeks to then come up with a draft for the first article of the series with its references.? I have checked the referred sources for accuracy and quality.? Finally, I have worked on the final draft and edited myself.? I hope you enjoy it!?

The Biological and Social Case for Rest

Gregory Bateson, a pioneer in systems thinking, emphasized the necessity of aligning human systems with natural rhythms. He noted that "the major problems in the world are the result of the difference between how nature works and the way people think," highlighting the importance of incorporating cycles of activity and rest to maintain systemic health.

Patagonia, the outdoor apparel company, embodies this principle by fostering a culture that prioritizes flexibility and work-life balance. The company offers benefits such as remote work and flexible times, encouraging employees to engage in restorative outdoor activities that promote well-being.

Rest as a Strategic Pause, Not Inactivity

Otto Scharmer’s Theory U introduces the concept of "presencing," a state of being fully present and connected to emerging future possibilities. This process involves moving through a "U" journey, where at the bottom lies an inner gate requiring us to drop everything that isn't essential. This letting-go and letting-come establishes a connection to a deeper source of knowing.

Basecamp, a software development company, operationalizes this concept through its "cool-down" periods. After each six-week work cycle, the company schedules two weeks with no planned work, allowing teams to reflect, address minor tasks, and consider future projects. This intentional pause prevents burnout and fosters strategic thinking.

Rest Builds Organisational Resilience

Carol Sanford, in her regenerative business approach, argues that teams must create "nonlinear spaces" to reflect, innovate, and regenerate. These spaces often emerge during pauses, where collective intelligence can flourish.

Buffer, a fully remote company known for its transparent culture, offers 4-Day work weeks, paid sabbaticals after 5 years, and carves out time for reflection. These practices encourage employees to recharge, enhancing the organisation’s ability to adapt to challenges while staying aligned with its core values.

Techniques for Rest and Reflection

One practical tool for fostering organisational rest is the Liberating Structure called "What, So What, Now What?" This structured reflection process helps teams pause to examine their actions, assess their significance, and plan next steps with intention. We have used this technique, as well as After-Action Reviews, and agile retrospective meetings in our Konsileo Academy Team.? Winter is an ideal time to introduce such techniques into regular team rhythms, helping teams embrace the wisdom of reflection collectively.

Conclusion: Winter as an Invitation to Reflect and Renew

Winter’s wisdom teaches us that growth is not a constant state but a cycle of action and pause. Teams, and teams of teams, must embrace rest as a strategic imperative. Whether through reflection practices like Liberating Structures or cultural innovations like Basecamp’s cool-down periods, the actions we take in rest prepare us for the energy and potential of spring.

As we navigate the stillness of winter, let’s remember the words of Otto Scharmer: "The quality of results produced by any system depends on the quality of awareness from which people in the system operate." Rest sharpens this awareness, allowing teams to connect with their shared vision and move forward with clarity and purpose. https://www.presencing.org/