Winter Reflection and the Eight Cs of Self-Leadership

Winter has arrived. Snow drifts softly from the sky, blanketing the world in quiet. The air is crisp, cheeks glow ruddy from the cold, and comfort can be found in steaming mugs of coffee, hearty soups, and sturdy snowboots. The sun lingers only briefly before surrendering to the long stretch of evening darkness. 

As night settles, stillness fills the household. Children wind down, pets curl at our feet, partners rest quietly nearby. In these moments, we are left with ourselves—our breath deepening, our thoughts slowing, our bodies relaxing with every exhale. It is here, in the calm of winter’s embrace, that we can reflect: on our day, our well-being, and our Self. 

This is the perfect time to consider the Eight Cs of Self-Leadership from Internal Family Systems Therapy. Each offers a lens through which to examine how we move through our day and navigate the world: 

• Calmness – Can you remain centered and grounded in the face of stress? Do you feel a spacious, peaceful quiet within, even when emotions stir? 

• Curiosity – Do you stay open and inquisitive rather than reactive? Can you seek genuine understanding of others—and yourself—without agenda? 

• Compassion – Do you recognize that others’ reactions may mask fear or pain? Can you respond with care without being overwhelmed, and extend that same kindness inward? 

• Confidence – Do you trust in your own goodness and worth, even when mistakes are made? Can you lean into your competence to relate in healing, effective ways? 

• Courage – Do you consciously face feared situations, stand against injustice, and own your impact by offering sincere apologies when needed? 

• Clarity – Are you able to see people and situations without distortion, free from projections or biases shaped by your own past? 

• Connectedness – Where do you find your sense of belonging? What beliefs shape your view of connection, and how do they influence your relationships? 

• Creativity – When was the last time you explored your unique creative spark? Did it bring joy, playfulness, or discovery? 

As you sit with these qualities, ask yourself: 

• Which of the Eight Cs feels strongest within you? 

• Where do you see opportunities to grow? 

• How might you nurture those areas—through practice, reflection, or gentle self-compassion? 

Winter’s stillness offers not just rest, but renewal. In its quiet, we can rediscover the Self that leads with calm, curiosity, compassion, and courage—and invite clarity, connectedness, confidence, and creativity to flourish. 

 About Kellie McCall: 

Kellie is a Resident in Counseling and offers a nurturing approach to help you navigate emotions and improve daily functioning. She tailors her therapeutic methods to align with your unique needs with a comprehensive, holistic strategy that considers every facet of your life, ensuring the most beneficial support. She primarily uses IFS (Internal Family Systems, trained) as a source of empowerment. To learn more about Kelli, visit HERE.