The Art of Easing Up Just Because You Feel Like It

Hi. Welcome to Bloom Anywhere. I'm Gwen Moran, a writer, editor, author, and problem-solver. My goal is to share information, ideas, and resources to help you overcome obstacles, reach your goals, and find more joy in life, even when things are messy. Thanks for joining me. (If you got this from a friend, subscribe here: Bloom Anywhere.) I'd love your feedback and suggestions for future topics. Please send me an email: connect@bloomanywhere.com.

​

Usually, I’m January’s equivalent of a morning person. I race into the new year, all full of vim and vigor, ready to tackle new goals and resolutions.

This year is a little different.

I did set goals for the year. And I plan on tackling them. But not quite yet. I’m not in the right mindset.

The time change and early darkness have affected me more than usual. (But we’re past the winter solstice, so we’re on our way to getting that daylight back.) There’s an overwhelming amount of holiday clean-up looming. I’ve got a plate full of professional and personal responsibilities, ranging from a parent with dementia to a house full of people to two elderly cats. I need to focus on the essentials right now. And that’s okay.

(Personal) Energy Conservation

I’ve written frequently about the importance of personal energy management—which may matter more than time management. Part of that is knowing when you work best and scheduling your activities around those ebbs and flows whenever possible. But part of it is also knowing when to lift off the gas and when to press hard.

If you’re as goal-driven as I am, it’s hard to accept that it’s okay to stop racing toward the next accomplishment. Pushing isn’t always the same as progress. And rest isn’t quitting—it’s a deliberate pause that allows reflection and recalibration. Just as fields need to lie fallow sometimes to allow future crops to flourish, so do we.

Accomplishment-chasing is a race to nowhere. Our worth isn’t measured in productivity or achievement, and we are all allowed to exist without constantly proving something. Right now, to bloom, I need to let the garden be a little quiet.

Your 2026 Predictions

How do you feel as you enter the new year? Are you raring to go or tiptoeing in quietly? I’d love to hear your thoughts—and how you’re feeling about the year ahead. Please write to me at connect@bloomanywhere.com.

Bloom Drops

Things I want to share with you.

Cozying up: A few years ago, I was introduced to the concept of hygge—pronounced “hoo-gah”—the Danish practice of creating a cozy, warm environment. Spiced candles, warm beverages, and fuzzy socks, yes. But also, feelings of contentment, safety, and connection. At the time, I explored a few blogs on the subject. I haven’t found one that’s particularly active these days, but the content is worthwhile and may give you a little boost. If you know of good hygge resources, please let me know.