My favorite gift to give is peace.
If you are like me, the holidays can stir up intense energy: a seemingly endless to-do list, a shortage of time, high expectations, and a distinct lack of peace. I personally "unsubscribed" from this stressful mentality years ago.
However, even actions with good intentions can still let stress creep in. My desire to honor, thank, and show appreciation to the people in my life—friends, clients, dog walkers, neighbors, and family—is strong. Yet, when the urge to give to others overshadows the need to give to myself, I know I am out of balance.
When worry and stress start to take over, I reconnect with the "why" behind my actions, reminding myself that our habits and mindset ultimately determine our experience.
This topic brings to mind a recent text exchange with a beloved family member. She was about to offer me the "gift" of worry after I mentioned some family members who tend to overstay their welcome were coming over.
Worry sent from my cousin and my response.
Below are some ways to stay centered and adopt peace at this time of year:
Offer intangible gifts to others: the gift of your time, your attention and thoughtfulness. These gifts that cost no money, yet provide huge value seem to go the furthest - with kids and adults alike. Spending time listening (without judgment and deciding what you will say next!) to your children, nieces and nephews. They will savor and remember this attention for years to come!
Create together: invite people to support and help you. Leave the dog with the sitter for an afternoon to give yourself time to take a nap.
Take your kids and their friends to the bowling alley - the other parents will thank you and your kids will be busy for a few hours.
Hydrate, eat and rest. This is an elevated pace of life during the end of year; which means you need to ensure the basics are covered.
Plan for a solo travel trip this year. I have given myself this gift and it continues to provide insight, awareness and evolution only found when on this type of adventure.
Last and most important, you cannot pour from an empty cup. When take care of you, you can give without stress or obligation. It all begins with you.
Wins
Turns out the last newsletter (The Future is Integrated) really resonated with many of you. I received lots of emails, messages and replies about the message. Sharing just a few that were short and sweet but may echo your sentiment.
Thank you for another encouraging and wise email.
I’d love to hear from you.
Are these insights helpful?
Which tools have you used?
What would you like to share with others?
Best wishes & many blessings,
Lisa
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