Despite the merry vibes and decorations, it can get overwhelming so keeping on track with mind work is supporting us with our focus.
Habits for a Healthy Holiday Mindset
Getting your mind in the right space will allow you to truly enjoy the holidays and focus on the people you love. Here are seven habits to get you started on that healthy holiday mindset.
1. Take Time to Reflect
We live in a culture of connectivity and constant distraction. We’re always expected to be “on,” we’re always moving to the next big thing, and too many of us tie our self-worth to our to-do list.
Our brains need time to unwind and play in order to process events, feelings, and thoughts. Unfortunately, very few of us allow time to be still and cultivate reflection. You need time to be alone, turn off your devices, and just think.
Here are three practical ways to make reflection a habit. Even just five minutes a day will make a huge difference!
- Meditate – There are so many health benefits to meditation. You can check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGWsqP2fSzE
- Journal – Journaling is a healthy habit that lets you connect with your inner world. You don’t have to be a great writer or make a lot of sense to journal. Start writing a few lines or paragraphs about your day—the highs, the lows, the people you talked to, and the things you accomplished. You can also free-write, as quickly as possible, about any subject that comes to mind. Let loose on those emotions. There’s nothing to be afraid of.
- Refine your List – Check into your Refinement practice and understand the values that guide you. Listen to yourself – you have all the answers.
2. Say Goodbye to Negative Self-Talk
As you pay attention to your thoughts, you might notice some destructive patterns developing. You can leave negative self-talk behind in 2022 and start the New Year with a fresh mindset. Replace destructive and critical self-talk with positive affirmations. Let go of the drive to be perfect and perform all the time.
Our brains have a “negativity bias,” meaning we filter out the good and focus on the bad. We interpret events in a bad light, hang on to bad memories, and ruminate on hurtful things people have said or done. Since we tend toward negativity, we have to work intentionally to identify and get rid of the negative dialogue that’s happening in our heads.
3. Get Ready for the Difficult Moments
The holidays bring their fair share of stress. One of the biggest headaches can come from spending time with family, unfortunately.. You might have some serious tension or disagreements with family members. Instead of running away from those challenges, shift your mindset and see them as opportunities for growth. Recognize how you can grow as a person by speaking your mind and making progress to improve your relationships, instead of damaging them, by having honest conversations.
4. Give Thanks
Carry the spirit of gratitude throughout Christmas and into the New Year. Practicing gratitude changes your mindset from one of fear to one of abundance. There are plenty of good things in our lives—we must be intentional about looking for them.
5. Spend Time With People Who Lift You Up
Motivational speaker and personal development coach Jim Rohn famously said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Be intentional about the people you see over the holidays. You don’t have to say yes to every party invitation. There’s no way you can keep up with it all. Focus on the people who bring positivity and encouragement and say no to the rest.
6. Serve Your Community
Nothing will give you joy, like being connected with a great purpose. If you’re having a tough time getting out of a negative mental mindset, get your focus off yourself and give back to your community. Share your time and intentionally channel your energy to support and be supported by your team members – over a Zoom call or a dinner downtown!
7. Laugh, Sing, and be Merry
As adults, we must fight to maintain the sense of childlike wonder that keeps the world fresh and exciting. But the psychological benefits are worth it. Your mindset will move into an incredibly positive and joyful state. Look for ways to have fun and unwind during the holiday season.
Take care of yourself so you can truly enjoy the holidays. Don’t be afraid to say “no” when you need to focus on re-adjusting your mindset. Your thoughts shape your reality, so make sure it’s the reality you want to live.
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