There have been years when I have been so overwhelmed with holiday parties, buying the right gifts, making all of the food and making it perfectly, that I forgot the meaning of this time of year. Depending upon your faith, this time of year can have different meanings, but for all of us, it is a time of remembering, thankfulness, joy and celebration. Gifts and food are a part of it but they aren’t the most important part.
Here’s what I’m focusing on this year to help me stay balanced:
1. Reflection—Each day I am giving myself 10 minutes of just being quiet. Some days I do it while on a walk, others I actually lie down and meditate or pray. I take that time to feel thankful. I focus on all of the good in my life and just be thankful, nothing else. I try to keep it simple and pure (ie. Thankful for my kids, my husband, my health).
2. Prioritizing—This time of year it’s easy for me to get really wound up about all that I could be doing. Instead, I am trying to focus on what I should be doing. My boys came home after school yesterday with a long list of cookies, banana bread, secret santa gifts, etc. they needed for school the next day. I had wanted to go to yoga.I could have done both but it would have meant a really hectic night for us all. I decided that I really wanted to be with my kids and make this a fun time of doing things together. We did and not only did it mean a lot to them, I found I felt free within because I let go.
3. Not trying to be PERFECT—I am letting go of doing everything perfectly. If I don’t buy all the gifts I should, I will apologize and make it up later. I am also realizing that our budget is different and instead of feeling bad about that, I’m embracing it. I’m not trying to have the table or the turkey or the pies perfect…I’m just going to make them with love and that energy come out.
May your holidays being beautiful and balanced!!!!!!
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