Hello,

I hope this finds you all well and happy.  As we get into the holiday season, it’s easy to get wrapped up in our things-to-do lists.

In addition, you might consider the following ideas:

Decide who you want to be during the holidays.
I love this mantra from Joe Zarantonello.   Stay present.  Be kind.  Lower your expectations.
If this does not seem like you, create one that does.  Then put it on a bracelet to remind yourself. Or post a sticker on the dash of your car.  Find a method to remember who you want to be.  People around you are impacted by how you are.  They will appreciate you at your best.

Invite others into the conversation.
Look for and notice who is on the outside, not included, not participating, not getting a chance to play or speak.  Invite them in.  People end up on the outside for all kinds of reasons. Don’t worry about why people are on the outside looking in, just notice that they are and invite them in.  They might choose not to participate.  Fine, a true invitation can be declined.  It’s the inviting that is the gift.

Make time for anyone who asks.
I know, I know.  You don’t have enough time already.  Actually you do.  Not enough time to do everything, but enough time to do what you thoughtfully choose to do.  Your time is a gift.  You cannot rely on people asking for time with you.  Some will. Many will not.  They either sense you are busy and pre-occuppied, or they don’t want to be a burden, or something.  Think about who would like to spend some time with you and offer.

Notice what is missing and provide it.
What is missing? is a different question from What is right/wrong? or What is working/not working?  The last two sets of questions lead to assessing and judging and then perhaps to blame or something being wrong.
Instead of assessing and judging, look for what is missing that if you provided, would make a difference.

Perhaps it’s:
• An offer to help out a colleague on an upcoming meeting
• Help in the kitchen after the meal
• Someone to play with the children
• Checking in and listening to someone who seems a bit out-of-sorts.
• Offering to make coffee or copies or take notes.

Look, you’ll see what is missing!

Happy Holidays!
Cindy and I wish you the very best!