Today’s world seems to be full of uncertainties. With the cries of “fake news” or "totally fake" all around us, many have been left wondering if there’s anything we can truly count on that’s real and truthful. This dichotomy seems especially prominent now with the holidays just around the corner and the pressure is mounting to "get our glow on" and deliver an experience that rings real and true for everyone.
So, what's "real" for you?
Real is listening to your gut and not ignoring it but acting upon it. Real is communicating in a loving way, listening and seeking to understand. Real is, as Stephen Covey puts it, beginning with the end in mind and understanding that the most important goal is first having a clear vision of what you want your true holiday experience to be and then making things happen to achieve it. How you get there may be an exercise in flexibility and compromise but in the end you'll be where you want to be.
I know that being "real" can be daunting, but my "Triple A" formula can help!
Yes, raise your hands to the sky and sing out a loud "Hallelujah!" Why? Because you get to take control of what you can control; i.e. your determination and fortitude to have a "real" holiday season.
Take the Safe Stress "Triple A" Holiday Test
Ask yourself these questions to determine if you’re living your truth this holiday season:
Did you dive headfirst into your holiday preparations without contemplation and AWARENESS of your holiday goal?
Are you continuing traditions that cause you more anxiety than happiness?
Have you communicated to significant others your wishes for the holiday season?
Have you ANALYZED the fact that you do have a choice in how you respond to abrasive relatives?
Have you written down or at least mentally know your holiday priorities?
What ACTION have you taken to change what’s not “real” for you?
If you answered “no” to all or most of these questions, you need to GET REAL! Don’t be flummoxed by these questions. Contact me now!
For more tips on dealing with holiday stress, check out these blogs:
Don't Let the Tail Wag the Dog this Holiday Season
All is Calm, All is Bright: 3 Tips on Eliminating Workplace Stress During the Holidays