Getting the Most Enjoyment from the Holidays

Our lives are busy all year long. How do we fit those things that we do once a year in an already overcrowded schedule? How do we fit in more time for shopping, wrapping, decorating, cooking, planning, partying, travelling? It's no wonder the holidays bring additional stress to many.

Here's a strategy that I've been using successfully for the last couple of years: From Thanksgiving to New Year's Day, I just say no to anything that doesn't directly produce money. I commit myself to creating the time and experience that allows me to express my holiday best. Here are some ways that you can put that strategy to work for you.

> Say no to meetings that aren't holiday celebrations.
> Say no to requests that could be done after the holidays.
> Say no to the routines that don't add to or support your holiday experience.
> Say no to the non-essentials.
> Say no to the season's aspects that don't appeal to you.
> Say no to inappropriate and unreasonable expectations.

> Say yes to gratitude.
> Say yes to allowing others their desired holiday experience.
> Say yes to taking care of yourself.
> Say yes to wider boundaries and higher standards.
> Say yes to the parts of the season you enjoy the best.
> Say yes to giving thoughtfully and accepting gifts with grace.
> Say yes to expressing your best to others.
> Say yes to forgiveness.
> Say yes to fun.

Handcraft the holiday experience of your choice. Here is a success formula for enjoying the holidays:

Let go of what's not absolutely necessary
+ Participate with your family, friends, and colleagues
+ Smile and laugh a lot
+ Extreme self care
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= Happy Holidays