In this video excerpt, Temporal (De)Colonization and Our Seasonal Work Cycle, we explore how colonial structures have shaped our sense of time and productivity and why it’s time to rethink and reclaim these cycles. If you’ve ever felt out of sync with the demands of modern work culture, this is your invitation to explore a more intentional and grounded way of being.
What Is Temporal (De)Colonization?
Colonialism has left a deep imprint on how we perceive time. Many of us are taught to prioritize productivity over rest, linear growth over cyclical renewal, and uniformity over diversity.
Temporal (de)colonization is about breaking free from these patterns and reconnecting with natural cycles that better align with our well-being and the needs of the planet.
In the video, we share how this approach informs our work at Future Ancestors Services:
Instead of pushing for constant growth, we embrace the ebb and flow of the seasons. Our work cycle reflects periods of intense activity followed by moments of rest and reflection.
Indigenous cultures have long understood the importance of seasonal cycles, whether it’s planting, harvesting, or storytelling in winter. By honoring these rhythms, we connect more deeply to our ancestral teachings.
Temporal (de)colonization invites us to resist the pressure to be endlessly productive. It’s a radical act of self-care and community care to prioritize rest and renewal.
How This Shapes Our Work
Our seasonal work cycle is a living example of temporal (de)colonization. Here’s how we apply it:
Spring: Planting Seeds for Growth
In the spring, we focus on planning and envisioning the year ahead. It’s a time for creativity and collaboration, where we plant the seeds of future projects and partnerships.
Summer: Nurturing Growth Summer is our busiest time, dedicated to delivering workshops, consultations, and other services. It’s a period of outward energy, where we bring our ideas to life and share them with the world.
Fall: Harvesting and Reflecting In the fall, we pause to reflect on what we’ve accomplished and gather the lessons we’ve learned. It’s a time for gratitude and preparation for the quieter months ahead.
Winter: Rest and Renewal
Winter is sacred for us, it’s a time to step back, rest, and recharge. By slowing down, we make space for healing, growth, and connection.
At Future Ancestors Services, the principles of temporal (de)colonization are central to the work we do. We embed them directly into our services and strategic consulting, guiding clients to rethink colonial frameworks of time, productivity, and growth. Through workshops, training, and organizational strategy development, we support organizations in adopting sustainable, cyclical work practices. By aligning with natural rhythms, we help foster healthier, more resilient ways of working that prioritize people and the planet.
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