It’s time to bring on the hot apple cider, twinkle lights, Michale Bublé and… Zoom calls? There’s no denying the holidays will be different this year, and we’re going to have to get creative to get festive. But how does creativity start? With a spark(le) of inspiration, but of course!
In any other year, the holidays are a notoriously stressful time. To-do lists multiply faster than rabbits, and we run around trying to get everything done and see everyone. There’s a lot of saying “yes” when our bodies really tell us “no”; we override the system, overindulge and sacrifice rest. We tell ourselves, “it’s the holidays!” and proceed full speed ahead.
What if this year can help us find a balance? Could we treat this as an opportunity to evaluate and reconnect with what the holidays really mean to us? If you’re not religious, perhaps you’ve already been questioning your relationship with the holiday season and the overwhelming consumerism wrapped up in it (topped with a non-recyclable bow and all).
It is possible to celebrate the holidays and our values at the same time. Figuring this out is a personal journey, but the good news is we’re here to help!
Put on the kettle, grab your journal or open your notes app and let’s get started with these prompts:
Prompt: What makes me sad that I’m going to miss out on this year?
It’s healthy to acknowledge and process your sadness, plus it can help you realize what part of the holidays you really do cherish.
Prompt: When I take away the material things and societal expectations, what do the holidays mean to me?
Maybe you’ll find this is quality time with loved ones, reconnecting with yourself, slowing down or spending time in nature.
Prompt: What are some ways I can reconnect with this meaning?
Try brainstorming new personal rituals or traditions. Maybe this is writing an old school holiday letter or spending a day foraging for greens to craft a compostable wreath.
Prompt: What are some ways I can share this with my loved ones virtually?
Can you host an online family night workshop where you teach everyone how to make your secret latkes or infamous sugar cookie recipe? If it involves outdoor activities like skiing, why not make a video that takes everyone along for the ride?
Prompt: How do I want to celebrate this meaning going forward?
When we take the bend into 2021, and the world enters into a more stable state, how do you want to take your holiday meaning into the “new” normal? How do you want to integrate your values and take what this time of year means to you into next year?
We genuinely hope this helps you get in the true spirit of the holidays, whatever that looks like for you! We’d love for you to share your reflections with the rest of our tuja community over on Instagram.
Wishing you a most safe, healthy and happy holiday season.
We all want a healthier, happier 2021. Forge past goal setting and take tangible action towards goal-getting with our Near Year goal-getting workshop led by Trish Tutton. During this intimate 90-minute gathering, you’ll gain clarity around your existing goals and acquire tools and prompts to begin to achieve them. Reserve your spot NOW – limited availability.
