And just like that, it’s already December 1.
Whew. That was quick. And that’s quite an understatement.
FYI: I am still in the process of assessing where the rest of 2025 went. Haha!
Don’t get me wrong, I am not complaining though.
After all, Christmas is my most favorite time of the year.
It serves as a beautiful break from it all, filled with good vibes, good food and good music.
Everything seems to be falling into place when the holidays draw near.
Or is it only my optimistic, wishful thinking?
I guess you can say that I choose to see things that way.
I mean, why focus on the chaos, the crazy deadlines and the not-so-good stuff on the news when you can spend the same amount of focus and energy on what actually is going right?
Ok now, the real question is: how are you in your current space?
Are you excited for the holidays or are you feeling blue?
Whatever your answer may be, for as long as you’re being honest with yourself, know that it’s ok.
Never too late to have a change of heart.
Amidst the chaos brought about by the yuletide rush, the key here is to ground yourself. Take that much needed time off and just let yourself be. Away from the work pressure and the need to conform, you get to discover what truly matters for you. Whatever that may be, go for that. All other things around you are mere distractions. Set your priorities straight and make sure you commit to them. You’ll be surprised to see how the other things will seemingly fall into place once you become clear and dedicated to what makes you genuinely happy, complete and fulfilled as you celebrate the holidays.
2. Choose meaning over money
Christmas was never about how much you can give but what intentions come with everything you choose to share with others. The monetary value does not matter; what matters is the thought behind it and how whole heartedly you want to make another person happy. Know that personalized gifts which you made yourself e.g. a hand made card, a cute keepsake or baked goodies are far more meaningful than any expensive item you can find in stores.
3. Gift yourself, guilt-free
Honey, you weren’t born just to please everyone else as you shower them with items on their wishlist. When was the last time you considered yours? You are just as deserving as everyone else. Buy that bag. Go on that trip. Splurge on that gadget. For as long as you’re willing to take responsibility as you live within your means, don’t ever feel guilty for spending on yourself. No need to justify to others whatever it is that will make yourself feel appreciated after surviving this year. That’s not exactly an easy feat and a reward or two can make a difference as you move forward to your next chapter.
4. Take time to just be present
Question: when at the mall, when was the last time you actually listened and enjoyed the Christmas carols being played? Or did you ever just sit down in one place, take a sip of your holiday drink and just watch the joy unfold on the faces of other people amidst the yuletide rush? Here’s the thing: no matter what you’re going through right now, when you stop, pause and allow yourself to just embrace the moment, you will realize how beautiful life is and how lucky you are to be able to witness miracles unfold right in front of you. Soak in the inspiration Christmas brings and you will never feel you lack anything when you view it from a lens of gratitude.
5. Update your bucket list
As the year draws to a close, now is the perfect time to check in with yourself and recognize what you still want to do and be in this lifetime. Best enjoyed when you write your bucket list coming from a space of endless possibilities, minus the limitations which your present situation brings or the pressures you are experiencing at the moment. Let your mind travel and your heart do the talking. Listen intently and know that whatever it is that you write, for as long as you believe you are truly worthy and you remain 100% committed no matter what, consider each and every item done and delivered on time, when you’re ready to receive.
Remember: beyond the festivities, what truly matters is how you choose to view this season of giving.
It’s not the society’s standards that will make you happier during the holidays; it’s finally embracing your own, as you celebrate it the way you want to, the way you truly deserve.
Happy holidays everyone.
