When we hear the Christmas tune, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” one of two voices follow in our heads. The first is “Yes it is” and warm fuzzies follow. The second is “Whatever, I’ll be glad when this is over so I can relax.”

I do appreciate the reminder to be giving, share love and be happy this time of year, but I do understand how pressure can mount due to business, anxiety of party planning, family in town, and depression can be a real issue for some during the holidays. My motivation is simply for us to breathe and release.

Practice taking in a deep breath, and as you do take in a positive thought. When you exhale, release pressure and negativity. Do this as many times as you need to throughout the day. Appreciation and a greater sense of gratitude will follow. 

I was thinking yesterday about the issue of contentment. I think a solid leadership life lesson is that the grass is never greener on the other side, it’s just how you manicure the grass you have. Think about this, things wouldn’t change even if things would change. The “make it better now” and “hurry up and move on” mentality is not healthy. There is so much power in the word P R O C E S S.

I posted this on facebook yesterday and it bears repeating:  “Let's get away from wanting to get away. You are where you are for a reason(s). Bloom where you are planted. Turn the mountain in your way into a gold mine.” We can’t leave prematurely and cheat the process. Besides, if you leave the situation would you leave the lesson with it? If so, then you are not ready to leave. It’s about constant growth my friend. Instead of uprooting, grow your roots deep.

Cheers!