What’s Up with You?
Sheri here,
Last week my newsletter was about preparing for the holidays, primarily about budgets – time and money. I also included a bit about attitude.
This week I’d like to chat a bit more about holiday attitudes. We have almost 90 days until New Year’s Day – the official end to the holiday season. That’s a fairly long time if your attitude is suffering.
Holidays are Hard for Some
Some people really have a hard time at the holidays. It could be the first year without someone or the anniversary of an event that was unhappy or sad.
If you find yourself in that category, be gentle with yourself, exercise self-compassion. Don’t overextend yourself. Maybe pick a couple of low-key events with a couple of friends and show up and find joy in the moment.
I learned a long time ago, that sadness and joy could co-exist. It may seem like a travesty, especially if you are processing fresh grief. But it is possible to experience both.
In fact, the sadness, the darkness supports us in understanding how special, how blessed experiencing joy can be. They are 2 sides to the same coin.
Some Solutions to the Blues
Maybe massive decorations are too much – but what about one pumpkin or some fall flowers? Some candy for the trick or treaters.
Try a walk around a craft store, it gets you out and shows you some of the possibilities of the season.
You don’t need to do any of them, except take in the festivities, the possibilities of the season.
Just hold that possibility door open – you may not see anything that calls you to take it home; but the bright colors and fun decorations are a lot of fun and a great potential to change your attitude to just a little cheerier.
If Sadness Continues – Seek Help
If the sadness continues, if it gets too bad and persists for too long, seek help. There are mental health specialists that can chat with you and support you in treating a serious case of the blues.
That’s ok – we’ve all had them at one time or another and it passes – just like the holidays.
My wish for you is that you find delight and happiness in the season; that you can hear the laughter of children and appreciate the joy of the season.
Drop me a note – leave a comment below and let me know where you are this year. Would love to hear from you whether you are happy or otherwise.
Me? I’m enjoying seeing the decorations and planning some special treats for those around me. My hope for you is the same.
Around town
My book, Everything I Learned About Life I Learned on Vacation is now available for sale on Amazon – you can buy it here – enjoy both the book and the season!
Have a blessed week.
Ciao,
Sheri