Weathering the Holidays

For those of us in the U.S., Thanksgiving officially ushers in the holiday season. As I take my dog for her daily walk, I see many of my neighbors have gotten a fast start -- homes are decorated with lights, and the number of delivery trucks on the streets is rapidly increasing. Yes, the holidays are here. Many have gotten an early start as a way to feel “normal” -- decorating for the holidays is a positive for many, bringing back memories of good times with family and friends. 

With that said, this year is different. It’s not normal. And for many people, the “holiday blues” are here in full force. I don’t want this to be perceived as a maudlin piece to garner attention. Rather, it’s a subtle reminder to keep our eyes, ears and hearts open to family members, friends, co-workers and neighbors that may see this time of year as something to be “managed” or even “endured”. 

Here are a few thoughts to help others during these next few weeks:

• Asking people if they’re “ok” is ok. Sometimes people just want to be seen and heard
• Setting up time for a ‘coffee/tea chat” with a friend or co-worker can be a great gift
• If you only text or email, pick up the phone and call. The human voice can be so soothing and reassuring. Sadly, personal phone calls are becoming a lost art. #guiltyascharged

And if this time of year is tough for you, here are things that have helped me:

• Exercise: take a walk, hit the gym, get out on the golf course or pick up a new sport. Doing something gets the body going and the brain energized
• Meditation - I wrote about it earlier this year. It's been the best gift I could give myself.
• Stick to a good diet. Noshing on sugary treats are fun but it can also lead to highs and lows
• Giving a gift doesn’t mean spending money. The gift of time and listening is precious in our overly busy world. Put the credit card away - people usually forget the gifts after a year or two, but they do remember experiences and time spent with those that are important in their lives
• And finally, thank yourself for showing up. Some days are tougher than others so even the smallest achievements deserve a pat on the back

I wish everyone a wonderful and safe holiday season.