COMMUNICATE – not doing so can cause so many misunderstandings and upsets at this time of year. When you’re feeling overwrought – ask for help – you’ll be amazed at how many people are on standby just waiting to be asked. Trust in the goodwill of humankind and if you’re feeling lonely – reach out.
CLARITY – in the lead up to Christmas, particularly if you’ve taken on the role of family organiser – it is easy to get muddled and befuddled. Take some time out for YOU every day – meditate, go for a walk in nature, have a good soak in the bath. When we take time to care for ourselves, we build up our reserves to take care of others.
COMPASSION – be kind to yourself and be compassionate to others, particularly those who are alone this Christmas. Do you have an elderly neighbour you could drop by and see? Or a friend who is recently divorced or bereaved who you could ask around? By helping others, we help ourselves.
CHOICE – remember the choice is always yours! If you get asked somewhere and don’t want to go – don’t. Make a gracious excuse and be true to yourself. It really is better for everyone if you don’t go along if you’re not feeling up to it – best only to share the best of you. And don’t feel guilty about it – not one little bit!
CALM – simply by taking 3 deep breaths whenever you’re feeling overwrought, has an instant calming effect. Try it! The great thing is, you can do this whenever and for however long you want – in a Christmas shopping queue – as soon as you feel tensions rising around the Christmas table – take 3 deep breaths and just let it wash over you. And when you’re calm, it has a ripple effect on everyone else – you’ll be amazed.
CHANGE – try introducing some changes into your usual Christmas routine – try changing the way YOU look at things, and as Wayne Dyer said “things you look at WILL change” – you don’t have to wait till the New Year to make a start at least.
CELEBRATE! – Laugh, choose to feel calm and not irritated. The choice is yours, it is your mindset that makes that choice!
Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas – and remember – YOU are MAGNIFICENT!
Fiona Clark – Midlife Empowerment Coach
Christmas is a difficult time of year – all that forced cheer when you’re going through a difficult time emotionally, the missing of dear departed ones, a recent divorce, the feeling of being alone even when in a crowd. I know – because I’ve been there. Please don’t be alone and in despair this Christmas – get in touch for a FREE pre-Christmas Day chat – I would love to help you.
For free demonstrations of instant calming and mood-boosting techniques such as EFT tapping, The Breath of Joy, etc, please join my Facebook Group The Magnificent Midlifers where I’ve been posting my “ Zen Zap videos – 25 ways in 25 days to stay cool calm and connected this Christmas”.