There’s a big difference between presents and presence. Unfortunately, it’s hard to see being present for others as more than giving them presents.
We’ve reached the time of year where it seems everyday a new round of Christmas cards arrives in the mail. You’re making last minute travel arrangements, and hoping the weather cooperates. You go over your shopping list to make sure you have all the ingredients for your holiday meals.
You’re just plain busy.
This time of year gets chaotic for many. It’s hard to enjoy the season because there are so many details. The focus tends to be on finding the perfect gift for someone else or planning the perfect meal for someone else.
But what about you?
This year, I want to encourage you to give yourself a gift. The gift of permission to slow down and enjoy the season. The gift of being present.
In the midst of the planning and travel, take time to do something for yourself. This doesn’t need to be a physical gift. Simply giving yourself permission to take a break is your gift.
Give yourself thirty minutes to go to a quiet room to rest. Give yourself a few hours to finish reading that book you started three months ago. Spend a few hours with a friend enjoying a meal and not talking about holiday plans.
Taking a little break from the busyness of the season doesn’t make you a bad host or mean are selfish. It means you’re allowing yourself time to rest and think so that you can be more present with others during those family events. It means you’ll have more energy to play with your kids as they open their new toys.
Being fully present means you’re not just attending an event. It means you’re engaged with others, you’re listening to others, and you’re encouraging others. If you’re worn out and stressed, you can’t be fully present.
So as you finalize your plans and start making your way to family events, parties, winter performances at your kids’ school, stop and think about what’s more important.
Having you present is present enough.
Take a break from the busyness and give yourself permission to rest. You need physical energy to get through all the activities of the season. But, you also need mental and emotional energy in order to be fully present.
As I wrap this up, I wanted to let you know I will be taking my own break for the rest of the holiday season. I’m heading to visit family in Texas and Oklahoma. And while I’m there, I won’t be here…on the blog, that is. I’ll be back after the new year when we can all start fresh.
I wish you all a safe, happy, and PRESENT holiday season. See you in 2019!
Reignite your creativity!
Subscribe to get new content, monthly newsletter, and important updates. You'll also receive a free download - "30 Days of Creative Inspiration."
