Be Like a Squirrel: Preparing for Your Future Self

Lately I’ve been asking myself: how can I make things easier for the version of  me I’ll be in December or January? Surprisingly (not really if you know me), squirrels came to mind.

Yes, you read that right! Squirrels are pros at preparing for the future. They tuck food away in little caches, knowing winter will be harder to navigate. I’m not suggesting you start stashing acorns, but I do think there’s something we can learn from them.

Here in the Midwest, summer makes it easy to do the things that keep us well. Sunshine and Vitamin D are plentiful. We can be outside, move our bodies, garden, play, and connect with others. Life feels lighter, and our nervous systems soak up that rhythm of activity and ease. Those natural supports keep us grounded and help balance out the stressors we carry.

But seasons change. As we move into winter and the holiday season, the landscape shifts. The cold and snow keep us indoors, schedules fill quickly, and expectations—both the ones we put on ourselves and the ones others put on us—can feel heavier. Joy and balance are still possible, but they often require more intention.

To prepare, I’ve been thinking about ways to take care of my future self:

Things I currently do:

• Set the coffee maker the night before, so my morning self has ready-made coffee.
• Wait to strip the bed until fresh sheets are in hand.
• Check the gas tank a day or two before a busy morning to avoid scrambling in a panic.
• Drink a cup of coffee or tea in peace—preferably with a cat in my lap.

Things I'm considering adding:

• Stringing lights in the yard for a burst of brightness in the darker months.
• Making simmer pots to refresh the air with comforting scents.
• Being more mindful about saying “yes” and “no,” leaving room to organize my time with more care.
• Researching a medicinal garden (or garden beds in general).
• Planning game nights with family and friends.

Please notice I am using the word “prepare.” I really encourage that we live in the present and—if we know some things about how winter can typically feel—preparing some reserves can complement that.

And this is where the squirrel comes in. Just as they prepare for the season ahead, we can also take steps now to support our future selves. Little things we put in place today can help us stay out of “after-care” mode—scrambling to recover after we’re already depleted.

A Gentle Invitation

• What could you “store up” now to support your well-being in the months ahead?
• Is there a rhythm, a practice, or a comfort you can lean into that might help your future self feel more grounded?

As we step into this new season, let’s remember: caring for ourselves now is a gift to the self we’ll meet later. Be good to yourself so you can continue to show up in this world the way you want to. 

Sometimes we need a little guidance in preparing those reserves. If you’d like support in caring for your well-being this season, contact me. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.