How are you going to show up for the holidays? When you show up, how can you survive the season upon us? This upcoming month can be a lot, or maybe not. Each of us has the freedom to show up however we choose for our family, friends, and most importantly, ourselves during the next four weeks.
Through experience and stories, I try my best to follow these life choices as I journey through the last month of this year:
1. ME FIRST! Yes, even during the season of giving and receiving, ME FIRST!
a. What do I want to experience during the holidays?
b. Who do I want to connect with during this time?
c. What boundaries do I need to set for myself to avoid overwhelm, drama, and disappointment?
i. Plan
ii. Make lists
iii. Just say, “No, thank you.”
d. Create time to continue caring for myself with movement, nourishment, and needed rest.
2. BE PRESENT! Yes, it’s busy and, yes, you can still be present during the busyness!
a. Let go of the past.
b. Let go of expectations and let be.
c. Be open to possibilities and opportunities.
d. Practice mindfulness by pausing before reacting.
i. We cannot control what one might say or do.
ii. We can control our reactions.
iii. Reactions are a choice.
e. Relax and go with the flow.
f. Give your phone and social media a rest.
3. BE GIVING! Yes, giving beyond the holiday gifts!
a. Give intangible gifts.
i. Gift of listening and companionship
ii. Gift of forgiveness and letting go
iii. Gift of gratitude and appreciation
iv. Gift of acceptance and surrender
b. The thought put into a holiday gift is more meaningful than how much something costs.
Holidays are part of the game of life, and how you show up matters. How can you journey towards a peaceful, joyous, and calm holiday season? End your year strong by taking caring of yourself, living each moment in the present and with a kind and generous heart!
“The smallest deed is greater than the grandest intention.” ~ P LaBelle
Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Health & happiness,
Charlene Bland
Sources:
https://www.thecoachingtoolscompany.com/coaches-have-families-too/
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/surviving-the-holidays-5_b_373997
TruBliss, LLC
Life & Health Coach
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