Winter Doesn't Have To Be About Hibernation

 

 

 

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A post shared by Amber LG | Writes. Runs. Reads. (@lifeasamberlg)

Not sure if it’s because I’m a book-obsessed nerd or because “arc” is just the latest term people are throwing around—but lately this phrase, Winter Arc, has been circling me for weeks.

With my birthday around the corner, I told a good friend that this season feels like one where I need to slip into isolation and focus on my book, our podcast, homeschooling the Gillies, and training. Basically, cut out all the other distractions I so easily get lost in.

A friend who’s big into Human Design says it’s the “2” in me—the hermit—coming out to play, calling me to internal growth. My husband would say it’s just me looking for an excuse to avoid socializing because it makes my skin crawl. Honestly, it’s probably both.

Either way, I’m all in for a Winter Arc because it’s not about hibernation. It’s about transformation.

My Own Winter Arc

Even through the holidays (if God allows), my plan is to narrow my focus to a few key things:

1. The Book. Getting it out of my head, onto the page, to the editor, and then into the hands of beta readers.

2. Relationships. Pouring into my relationship with God and growing stronger in my faith.  

3. Homeschooling. The Gillies are finding their passions, and their curiosity has me doing more research than I did in residency. Their excitement for learning is contagious, and I want to keep up.

4. Training. This birthday year is focused on healing. My training plan has shifted—less punishment, more purpose. I’m building strength for the next phase of events (Hyrox, 100 miles, kayaking).

This Winter Arc may revolve around these four priorities, but it’s also about slowing down and using this time to fill my cup: growing closer to God, my husband, and the Gillies.

I told a friend recently that when you let go of something, you create space for God to bless you with what you actually need. So here’s to letting go of distractions, focusing on what matters, and making space for the right things to take root.

Build Your Own Winter Arc

If you want to craft your own version of transformation, here’s how I’m structuring mine—ten steps to help define your Winter Arc and step into the version of yourself you want to be.

1. Create a short list of rules or guidelines.

Five max. Not ten. Five. Maybe it’s to prioritize writing, eat healthier, drink less, reduce screen time, or move daily. Keep it simple and sustainable.

2. Write a mission statement—your North Star.

It could be something like “Do One More” or “I am becoming the version of me I want to be every day through small actions.” It doesn’t have to be profound, just personal.

3. Build an Actions Board.

We all know vision boards—photos of what you want to achieve. But an action board goes further. Add post-its with steps you can take for each goal.
Want to run a race? Sign up. Hire a coach. Start training.
Want to publish a book? Set deadlines. Find an editor. Create a writing schedule.
Action reveals clarity. And clarity brings transformation.

4. Track your mother-tricking habits.

Doesn’t matter how. Wall calendar, bullet journal, checklist, app—just track. Personally, I’m team bullet journal. I like to color in the boxes; it makes me weirdly happy.

5. Create boundaries.

You only have two currencies: time and energy. You can’t make more time, but you can protect your energy.
Get comfortable saying no to people or situations that drain you.
I’m not saying quit your job or ghost your sister. I’m saying maybe skip the 10 p.m. bar invite before your 5 a.m. training session. Prioritize what fuels you.

6. Create bookends for your day.

Morning routines are important, but your evening routine sets the tone.
Set yourself up for success. Prep for tomorrow. Control what’s in your control. Life already hits below the belt sometimes—don’t hand her the gloves.

7. Journal.

Yes, even the boring stuff. My hand cramps, my brain races faster than I can write, and I always imagine some future historian reading my journals thinking, “This wanker sure blubbers on about nonsense.”
But my husband reminded me: even the prolific folks we quote wrote ordinary things. Teddy Roosevelt had days he just complained about his digestion. We just don’t read those entries.
So, write the boring stuff. It all counts.

8. Make a celebratory list.

Transformation isn’t just the finish line—it’s the messy middle. Celebrate it all: the small wins, the lessons, the streaks, the effort.
Maybe it’s a massage, a quiet morning coffee, a new book, or simply permission to rest.
Reward the process.

The Point

Winter doesn’t have to mean hibernation. For some, it’s the season of becoming.  Whether you’re pulling back to rest or rising up to transform, there’s room for you here.

As for me, I’m stepping into my Winter Arc and channeling the main-character energy I want in my life.

Next Steps:

• Follow my Winter Arc on social → @lifeasamberlg

• Get tough-love motivation delivered to your inbox → subscribe to my weekly love notes

• Need inspiration for your journey? Grab a copy of Grit + Glow

Also, I made a Winter Arc playlist—it’s raw, moody, and a bit explicit. You’ve been warned. You can find it on Spotify.  [Please Note: It's labeled Villain Mode as I use this playlist to strength train]. 

Remember:  However you spend this winter, be intentional.  Hibernate. Heal. Transform. There’s no wrong season—only wasted ones.  

Grit + Gumption.
ALG