Five Thoughtfully Fit Strategies to Survive the Holidays

‘Tis the season of holiday joy, traditions, and . . . people problems. Even without the shadow of COVID-19, this time of year can be difficult to navigate. What gifts are we buying and will they arrive on time? Is curbside pick-up a better option? How do I take time off when working remotely and my computer is always there? How can I make sure my Christmas morning isn’t like the one in this SNL sketch?

No matter the obstacles you’re facing right now, there’s a Thoughtfully Fit strategy you can practice to overcome it. As we close out this challenging year, we want to give you a recap of five past articles that’ll help you bring some joy—or at least some sanity—to your holidays. 

1.If there aren’t clear expectations over the holidays 

What Your Team Can Learn From Our 90-Pound Foster Dog

Whether it’s for a one-time project or a longer working relationship, have a conversation on how to work together. Get clear on the expectations up front by asking some questions. What will success look like? What is each team member responsible for? 

2. When you need to have a conversation, but don’t want it to get heated 

Speak So You Can Be Heard

Add compassion to the conversation. Whether during a work meeting or at a family dinner table, compassion allows everyone to know they’ll have a chance to be heard. When you’re vulnerable and let your defenses down a bit, it invites everyone else to do the same.

3. When it feels like you’re not doing enough (or doing anything right)

We’re All Doing the Best We Can

We all have different roles and, at different times, those roles can be overwhelming. So when you notice you’re judging yourself, remember the words of Brené Brown’s husband: “All I know is that my life is better when I assume that people are doing their best.” That includes you.

4. If you’re feeling like it’s impossible for anything to change 

Focus on the Moment

If you can engage your core (Pause. Think. Act.) in little moments, it gets stronger. And you’ll find it easier to behave thoughtfully in more challenging situations. Don’t try to change everything overnight. Instead, let the little moments start to make a big difference.

5. And for everything else 

Three Steps to Overcome Any People Problem: Pause. Think. Act.

When you’re encountering hurdles and experiencing people problems, that’s when you Pause. Give yourself the time to Think. What’s in my control? What are my choices? Then choose your response and Act. . . thoughtfully.

You can handle your people problems this holiday season by being Thoughtfully Fit! I hope these articles are a reminder to help you engage your core—focus on your choices and what you control—so you can experience the joy of the season. 

From my family to yours, I wish you a wonderful holiday! My team and I are so grateful that you join us every week to learn, grow, and improve together. It’s been an honor sharing Thoughtfully Fit Tips with you throughout the year. 

We are taking time off to practice Stillness over the holidays, so there won’t be a blog next week. We look forward to connecting with you again in 2021!

P.S.- We have a few spots available in our Thoughtfully Fit Leadership: Increase Your Impact series which starts in January. If you’re curious whether this program could be a good fit for you or a colleague, contact us today. Professional development is a great last-minute holiday gift!

Please click below for my free gift to you.

This resource will provide you with 9 steps to build the resilience and grit necessary to overcome your obstacles and be successful!