Let it flow, let it flow, let it flow!
Here come the holidays---all wrapped up in a juicy opportunity. It’s a chance for more grace, less stress. To do things a bit differently. To experiment. Here are six tips to get your holiday joy flowing…
You have all you need. Really. One of my beloved teachers, Lynne Twist, encourages us to gift what we have. And many of us who are of a certain age have so much. Why not “shop” in your house? Give things you’ve loved and cherished --- along with their backstory. Bonus: it’s much gentler on our precious planet. Or, give a lesson---like how to make krumkake, lefse or rosettes? Research tells us experiences live on much longer than stuff. Or bake—then share with tea. A gift of your time. Priceless.
Let your values take the lead. This makes all the difference. Your own guiding star. Random acts of kindness. Surprising a neighbor. Paying for the person behind you. Making a major donation. Sharing quality time. Getting outdoors. Embracing stillness. Not using disposable plastic. This alignment is magic.
Say, “Yes!” when people offer to bring something. With gratitude! To let them is to honor them. Then take that right off your overflowing list. Which leads to…
Let go (or try to) of perfection. Let it FLOW. Perfection and control are like evil twins. Full disclosure: Do I love beauty and creating incredible spaces and experiences for people. Absolutely (it’s actually my job!) However, if I’m honest, I’ve sometimes let those urges run the show (more than I care to admit). Especially during the holidays. I’ve missed out and so have they. Letting go of control isn’t about not caring. It’s daring to care about what matters most---and putting your energy right there. Like with faith, family, friends, and making shared memories with beloveds.
A little sweet time for yourself. My go-to is a hot bath, a candle, a book. That thirty minutes works wonders. You know yours. Give yourself that gift. It’s not selfish, it’s self-love. Huge difference. Is this your year to discover that?
Make one delicious thing. Savor that.
Because, this, my friends---is where joy lives. In the simple pleasures. In your values-aligned life. In the love. In the memories. I want that for you. Let it flow!