3 Ways to Simplify this December
I was in a traffic jam recently. Not with cars, but shopping carts. It was the Saturday before Thanksgiving as I was jammed between the freezer and beverage sections. As folks steered around the obstacle and continued on their planned path, I was ready to follow suit. Straight to the eggs. As I made the turn, the “obstacle” caught my eye. A sweet elderly couple striving to lift a case of soda into their cart. But it was awkward and heavier than expected. Pushing my to-do list aside, I offered help to this sweet gentleman who graciously accepted and within a few moments we were both on our way.
Yet, this moment, caused me to pause. Sure, I helped move a case of soda for this one couple this one time, but how many times have I This moment caused me to pause. Sure, I helped move a case of soda for this one couple this one time, but what about the many times I miss these moments? What about all times I am so focused on the “to-do’s” that I miss the opportunities “to be.” Present, flexible and awake.
It seems the holiday season offers many things, and by default, my brain naturally absorbs the energy of overwhelm and hurry. And if I run with those default thoughts, I end up feeling overwhelmed and tired, which is the opposite of what I’m actually trying to focus on.
Yet with a little intentional focus, those defaults can be shifted to empowered places that absorb the energy of light, love and connection. Here are three ways to make simplifying a reality this month:
- Less really is less. As much as marketing does a fantastic job instilling a belief that more is more, let’s remember that more really is more. More things to store, more things to return, more things to take up our time and energy. How might simplifying offer the exact space (mentally and physically) that you need at this time? Some families simplify the gift exchange process – a want, a need and an experience per child. Whatever the process, notice the freedom a clear, simple plan can provide.
- What we focus on grows. What do you want to focus on? What energy do you want to practice on purpose? Maybe choose a word, scripture or phrase for the month. Have a conversation as a family about what traditions you want to start, stop or continue. Do you want to feel gratitude for others? How might you express that? Is service important to you? What might be a small and simple way to serve within your own home, your neighborhood and/or your community? Make a plan and write them into your calendar. Or, this calendar can be a great place to build a framework from.
- Breathe. On Purpose. When you notice unintentional thought patterns creeping in “I have so much to do.” “I’m not doing enough.” “What if this is wrong?” slow down and take a breath. Inhale for four, hold for four, exhale for four, hold for four, and repeat. Of course those thoughts will show up in life, it’s called being a human. But what we do with those thoughts is a choice, and sometimes breathing on purpose can create just enough space to be mindful of them without giving them power over our present place.
How will you embrace being in place of doing this Christmas season?
