Every season presents change, and change is an opportunity for growth. In the midst of cold weather and seasonal freezes, I prune my large tropical plants to mitigate weather damage. I prune them so their energy is focused on their roots, safe and warm in the soil, to maximize their chances of survival and enjoying new growth as temperatures warm. My elephant ears spend most of the year creating wide canopies and casting shade across the plants I have growing closer to the ground with their leaves that stretch several feet long and a couple feet wide. In winter, their barren stalks are a reminder that growth ebbs and flowers, its pace adapting to the rhythm of nature. My plants are still alive and still healthy, but conserving energy in anticipation of growth to come.
Using my plants as inspiration, I look to the seasons to make changes that will better my life in the seasons ahead.
These are some of the ways I “prune” myself”:
Reflecting on the hobbies, habits, and routines I practiced over the past year, and evaluating what served my growth and what didn’t
Thinking about projects and goals I invested into that didn’t reward me, and consider if they’re worth further investment or something to move on from
Taking note of the goals and projects I didn’t put time & effort into that have potential to reward me, and if I will prioritize them in the coming year
Appreciating where I had success, and thinking about how can I maintain and use it going forward
Assessing my relationships, and identifying who is supporting my growth and who is stifling it
A great way to begin the “pruning” process is with paper and a pencil. Set a timer for ten minutes and write a letter to yourself. Write as much as you can without stopping to think about it. Include challenges you faced, mistakes you made, and what you learned. Also include your successes, defining moments of bliss and elation.
You can review the material in the coming year and use it as a tool as you address your new hobbies, habits, and routines of the season.
Happy pruning, everybody, and let’s grow together!
I wanted to embed this video into the post but it wouldn’t work. Click the link to the watch a short video about pruning my elephant ears (it’s also the first Garden Marcus video I posted to the internet, nearly three years ago today).
For more on what plants can teach us about personal growth, check out my book & audiobook: How to Grow: Nurture Your Garden, Nurture Yourself
Lately I’ve been feeling like my pink princess philodendron, and here’s why
I hope you find reasons to smile today 😁