Choosing Moments and Presence Over Madness and Presents This December

As we step into December, the narrative often tells us it's the 'season of joy and giving.' But let's be honest, for many of us, it feels more like a battle to tick in the boxes and the 'season of stress and last-minute scrambles.' We envision peaceful evenings under twinkling lights, yet often find ourselves frazzled on December 24th at 3 PM, hunting down that final gift or rushing to send the last email before the office closes for holidays.

'Under the Christmas Tree' Stress? Let's Change That This Year...

This year, let’s challenge the norm and reclaim December for what 

it truly can be - a time for calm, contemplation, and meaningful connections. 

Here's how:

1 | Pre-Plan Your Gifts:

Create a spreadsheet or use a note-taking app to list all your gift recipients. Next to each name, write down a gift idea, then check them off as you complete your shopping.

Why: Planning your gifts in advance helps to avoid last-minute shopping stress. It allows you to thoughtfully consider each person's preferences, making the gift more meaningful.

2 | Thoughtful Gifting:

Reflect on the recipient's past year. Have they taken up a new hobby, faced challenges, or mentioned something they've wanted? Use these insights to guide your gift choice.

Why: Gifts that resonate with a person's current life or interests show that you listen and care. This makes the gift more impactful and cherished.

3 | Christmas Cards with a Personal Touch:

Set aside a specific evening for card writing. Keep your address book and stamps at hand. Add a personal note or memory shared with each recipient in the card.

Why: Personalized cards strengthen connections. They show you've taken the time to think about the person, which is especially meaningful in an increasingly digital world.

4 | Schedule Your Final Work Week:

Break down your workload into small, manageable tasks. Prioritize them and tackle them one by one. Communicate with your team about your plan.

Why: Organizing and prioritizing work tasks help to manage workload effectively, reducing the risk of burnout and ensuring you can fully relax during your holiday break.

5 | Plan Relaxing Evenings:

Schedule these evenings in your calendar as you would any important appointment. Choose activities that you find relaxing, such as a hobby, meditation, or a quiet walk.

Why: Regularly scheduled relaxation time helps to reduce stress and improve overall mental health. It ensures that you have time to recharge, making you more productive and happier.

6 | Mindful Party Attendance:

Decide on a maximum number of events you'll attend. Choose the ones that are most important to you, and politely decline the others.

Why: Being selective about social commitments allows you to enjoy the events you do attend fully. It helps prevent the feeling of being overextended and ensures quality time is spent where it matters most.

7 | Delegate Holiday Preparations:

Break down holiday tasks (like decorating, cooking, shopping) and assign them to family members or friends. Make it fun by turning it into a shared activity.

Why: Delegating reduces your workload and involves others in the festive preparations. It makes holiday prep more of a communal and enjoyable activity rather than a stressful solo mission.

8 | Embrace Simple Traditions:

Choose a few holiday traditions that are easy to manage and bring you joy. This could be as simple as watching a favorite holiday movie or baking a specific recipe.

Why: Simple traditions create a sense of continuity and joy. They anchor us in the holiday spirit without the stress of elaborate planning.

Let's Make December Different

This December, let’s strive for a balance between holiday cheer and personal peace. Let's prioritize our well-being and meaningful experiences over the rush and obligations. By planning ahead and being mindful of our choices, we can enjoy a December that’s not only festive but also truly fulfilling.

December is more about presence than presents, more about moments than madness. You decide what you do and how ! 

Warm wishes for a peaceful and joyous December!

Keep Growing, 

Carina Hellmich