You've returned from the holiday lull - and
whether you took time off to play and relax or took advantage of the "quiet
time" at work, by now you're probably caught back up in what
I call The Speed of Life.
If you're like a lot of people, you may experience a sort of "post-holiday
dip." Do any of these describe you?
- You had so much to DO (cooking, cleaning, shopping, wrapping, visiting,
or hosting) that you never got around to relaxing... and you've
returned to work stressed.
- While you dearly love your family... you sometimes found yourself
wishing they'd all go home.
- Your family maintained the holiday tradition of bringing home a virus...
so you spent your time off either playing nurse or nursing your own
fever.
- You set a few goals for yourself... and you've already failed
on at least one of them, while your motivation is flagging on the others.
Hey, you are NOT alone! You've just experienced life as it really
occurs - messy, full of highs and lows, and stubbornly unmanageable.
In the spirit of sharing, I offer you four gifts to help you better weather
the stormy times ahead. (P.S. these are gifts you can give yourself):
- The Gift of Time for You
Allow yourself, every so often, to set down your cares and concerns;
step away from the going, going, going, and let yourself drift into
meditation, a great conversation, a good book, or a rare indulgence
that fills you with peace.
The Gift of Love
Love who and what you are, unconditionally. Love others, without reservation.
Accept the love that is offered by others.
- The Gift of Possibility
Give yourself permission to try new foods, make new friends, explore
new activities, and challenge the limitations you or others place on
your world. Expand what's possible for you and be amazed at how
you respond and grow.
- The Gift of Optimism
Bad stuff happens, yes. Optimism helps you focus on the good stuff.
Optimism is when you hold an expectation of future happiness. Imagine
a future that is bigger, bolder, and more joyful than what you've
considered before.
I thank you for being part of my world, for your contribution to my business,
my learning, and my life over the past 12 months. And together with you
I look forward to a wonderful unfolding of 2009.
In happiness,
Jim Smith
The Executive Happiness Coach(R)
PS: Join the Happiness Conversation (you get to talk back!) at www.LifeWithHappiness.com.
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