Is it Holidays or Holidaze? Nonetheless, this season (and others) comes with a lot of emotion; good and bad. Whether it be the loss of a loved one, financial battles or just overall somber; here's some things to focus on when trying to get back that "Go-Lucky" spirit.
Seek comfort in your surroundings
Holidays just aren't the same when someone we love isn't around the table or tree this year. We long for their jokes, antics and general presence. When emotions run high; tell that story that makes everyone laugh until they cry. Scout out the food and put one of their favorite dishes on your plate (even if you have to stare at it long enough to eat it). Sit in their "spot" and just take in the moment. Let yourself engulf the moment, even if it does seem a little distant. When in doubt, a smile always does some good. Look around the room and find that genuine smile; I guarantee someone is watching yours and when you crack it, they'll smile more.
Be here; not there.
I get it, everyone has different seasons. It's hard not to long for different times in your life. Remember, the ones you're around are worth that much more of your attention & love. Let's not miss a moment. A picture not taken is a memory not captured; a joke without laughter. We came through the storms only to help someone else master their own vessel. Be here. In the moment, taking everything from the weather to the people involved into play. Wishing away your time only makes room for more memories to become missed or to never occur at all. Lets live it well- right here. Right now.
Put it on hold
Have a work phone? Throw it away.... okay maybe not. I can promise though, work doesn't care how happy you look when your family comes into your home to celebrate warm hearts. Deadlines? I understand that deadlines are crucial in developing a plan but I say work a few extra hours each day in the weeks leading up to the holiday break so you wont be waking up when Santa does just to click submit. Your boss/professor cares but your family cares a lot more. Figure out what is essential. If you're already doing point 1 & 2, you know that your current moment, friends and family are where your heart is.
Be patient
Restlessness and anxiety; not a cocktail anyone wants to drink. Let's be patient; it's free and always leads to good decisions. Maybe you thought that this was going to be your year to give more, be more and experience more annnnnnd somehow you seemed like you've failed. YOU DIDN'T. You grew. You took life by it's horns and decided not to give up. Your Christmas bonus will come in due time. You're going to start that new job when you're ready and when the time is right, not with your new year. Just as anxious kids are at the base of their trees waiting on their parents to open gifts remember you need to wait on your time. Waiting helps us appreciate the open road after sitting in traffic, helps us appreciate a home-cooked meal but most importantly waiting helps US find ourselves again. An avid climber doesn't climb for the sake of it, they climb to appreciate the views after a rather tough ascent. A painter doesn't paint to clean up their mess, they paint to appreciate a beautiful picture after it dries. Whatever it is, it'll come... when it's train arrives; not yours.
Hang in there- if you haven't been told today, you're doing great.
