It's time to run the work and holiday gauntlet...or not

It's time to run the work and holiday gauntlet...or not.

The next three weeks might feel like running a gauntlet of activities...end of year strategic planning sessions and offsites, kids holiday programs and parties, weekend special events, and fulfilling an ever-expanding gift list. There are opportunities for joy and connection along the way, and also, whew, it's a LOT.

As we close out the year in our work, there are so many responsibilities before everyone "heads out for the holidays".  Year-end performance reviews, finalizing budgets, holiday gatherings ... all extra things on top of our already full calendar.  I know you want to get it all done -- and you will.  Please hear me on this:

You do not have to earn your holiday.

You have worked hard all year.  One of these items on your to-do list not getting done is not going to negate that fact.  You do not have to get it all done "so you can be out".  You can be out.  It's the holidays and it's your PTO. I know it feels like it right now, but if something falls off the list, it will be ok. Really, it will.

The energy is definitely reaching a crescendo over the next few weeks.  I can feel it like a soundtrack in the background. It feels like that part in a video game or a movie when you're almost out of time and the music just speeds up, you know that feeling, right? Yikes.  Let's turn off the movie, shall we?

Here's how I'm tuning in: I'm making a promise to myself to do 3 things each day to slow things down and remind me that I'm the boss of me (not my to-do list). 

Does it feel frivolous to do this right now? Yes. Is it critical that I stay healthy, present, and connected in this season? Also yes.

1.  Drink more water. When it gets cold out, I get lax in staying hydrated and I know it makes a difference in how my brain works and how my body feels.  I'm tracking my water intake now!

2.  Get outside. I have a practice where I get my bare feet in the grass (usually with my coffee in hand) every morning.  When things get busy, I get sucked into my email and forget.  I'm going to get outside every day, no matter how cold, with my feet in the grass or for a walk!

3.  Sit in the light.  I absolutely adore candles and clear lights this time of year.  I feel their magic when I'm sitting in the dark and letting them light the area around me.  I'm going to do my daily journaling or Advent study sitting by candlelight!

I'd love to hear what you are going to do for yourself this season. Comment and tell me!