What Works: Give yourself a break this Thanksgiving
Submitted by editor on Mon, 11/24/2014 - 12:57pm
The holiday season officially kicks off this Thursday. Thanksgiving is about so much more than turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all the other trimmings. It’s about what trims your life. We spend this holiday around those who matter the most, those who deck our lives with joy, happiness, peace, understanding, and kindness. However, some holidays aren’t as carefree. Here’s how to give yourself a break and muster gratefulness for a few portions of the holiday that might not be so merry.
Working: The world doesn’t stop because it’s Thankgsiving. In fact, many of our protective, service, and blue collar personnel keep working while we are eating. If you happen to be working, find a way to bring Thanksgiving to the workplace, even if it’s a turkey sandwich and a gratitude list. Make a list of people to call and say Happy Thanksgiving. One year, I called into my family’s party in Texas. It made me feel so warm and fuzzy as they passed around the phone. I really felt like a part of the holiday even though I was here in Nevada.
In Charge of Everything: Just because you are in charge of everything doesn’t mean you have to do everything. Give children age-appropriate tasks. Ask people to bring side dishes and desserts. Have an organized family member keep track of who is bringing what. If possible, make organizing the event a family affair. If you must organize everything, remember to take action and serve with joy and gratitude for the people you are serving.
Nowhere to Go: Perhaps the most difficult way to do the holiday is with nowhere to go. This is the perfect time to give of yourself. If you are working through an addiction, many 12-step programs have potlucks and marathon meetings. Volunteering at a homeless shelter or with a charity is a great way to give back and meet new people who are also doing the holiday alone. Just know that you are never truly alone and someone’s life will always be warmed by your presence.
Needing a Break from Family: It’s hard to get a break from family during the holidays if you really need it. But, sometimes, you really DO need it. Take a walk with your pets. Volunteer to pick something up from the store, if it is still open. Go for a short drive. Meditate. Come back refreshed and with a bright, clear, and positive mind.
On a Diet: Diets are difficult. However, if you are at a potluck, be sure to bring something diet friendly for yourself. White meat turkey is very healthy, vegetables, fruits, and other staples are usually found on most buffets. If you decide to dive in, don’t beat yourself up. Just get back on your regimen the next day. Single actions do not make for a blown diet. Actions taken over an extended period of time do.
Do you need any Thanksgiving or Holiday advice? My life coaching skills are open to you. Just comment below. The floor is yours, Carson City.
ABOUT DIANE HANSEN
Diane Hansen is the Chief Inspiration Officer of What Works Coaching, a coaching firm that has helped people worldwide with their businesses, careers, mindsets, and profit margins. She brings to Carson City more than 17 years of experience with a wide array of clients, ranging from top corporations, motivated entrepreneurs and individuals hungry for a fresh start. Her column appears every Monday, and sometimes Tuesday, on Carson Now.
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