Key Takeaways
- The author has been living seasonally for 13 years, spending 8 months in Toronto and 4 months abroad, which has helped him break out of his routine and find a better work-life balance.
- Living seasonally allows for a mix of structure and spontaneity, which is essential for personal growth and productivity.
- The author has discovered the concept of "unhinged habits," which involves having seasons of contrast and being excited for the phase you’re in, knowing it’s not always the phase you’ll be in.
- Seasonal living helps to avoid burnout and anhedonia, which can result from constant exposure to the same routine and stimuli.
- Embracing contrast and seasonal living can lead to personal growth, evolution, and a more fulfilling life.
Introduction to Seasonal Living
The author, Jonathan Goodman, has been living seasonally for 13 years, splitting his time between Toronto and various countries around the world. This lifestyle has allowed him to break out of the noise of his routine and find a better balance between work and personal life. By living seasonally, Goodman has discovered the importance of having seasons of contrast, which has helped him to avoid burnout and find a more fulfilling life.
The Importance of Contrast
Goodman’s experience has taught him that contrast is essential for personal growth and productivity. He believes that living in a single environment for too long can lead to a lack of appreciation for the things that bring us joy. By changing his environment and routine every few months, Goodman is able to refresh his perspective and find new inspiration. He also believes that having seasons of contrast allows for a mix of structure and spontaneity, which is essential for a balanced life.
The Concept of Unhinged Habits
Goodman has discovered the concept of "unhinged habits," which involves having seasons of contrast and being excited for the phase you’re in, knowing it’s not always the phase you’ll be in. This approach to life allows him to be present in the moment and appreciate the beauty of each season. Goodman believes that most people get caught up in routines and habits that no longer serve them, and that living seasonally helps to break free from these patterns.
Avoiding Burnout and Anhedonia
Goodman’s seasonal lifestyle has also helped him to avoid burnout and anhedonia, which can result from constant exposure to the same routine and stimuli. He believes that the human brain is wired to respond to novelty and change, and that living seasonally provides the necessary contrast to keep life interesting and engaging. By taking breaks from his routine and trying new things, Goodman is able to refresh his mind and body and avoid the feeling of being stuck in a rut.
The Benefits of Seasonal Living
The benefits of seasonal living are numerous, according to Goodman. It allows for a mix of structure and spontaneity, which is essential for personal growth and productivity. It also helps to avoid burnout and anhedonia, and provides the opportunity to try new things and discover new passions. Goodman believes that living seasonally is a way to return to a more natural way of living, one that is in tune with the rhythms of nature and the human body.
Embracing Contrast and Growth
Goodman’s experience has taught him that embracing contrast and seasonal living is essential for personal growth and evolution. He believes that people are not meant to be static beings, but rather wanderers and investigators who are constantly seeking new experiences and challenges. By choosing to enter a new season, Goodman is able to choose growth and evolution, and to gently return to his true self. He believes that this approach to life is essential for living a fulfilling and meaningful life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Goodman’s experience of living seasonally for 13 years has taught him the importance of contrast, structure, and spontaneity in life. He believes that living seasonally is a way to break out of routines and habits that no longer serve us, and to find a more balanced and fulfilling life. By embracing contrast and seasonal living, Goodman has been able to avoid burnout and anhedonia, and to discover new passions and interests. His story is an inspiration to anyone looking to shake up their routine and find a more meaningful way of living.
