As we come to the end of another year, it can be beneficial to reflect on the year we're finishing to allow us to truly unwind, relax and be present with friends and family over the holidays.
2021 hasn't been without its challenges, and these will have been different for everybody, with everyone rising to these and dealing with them in their own way. It is amazing how resilient we can be when we think of the changes that we've adapted to, the challenges we've risen to, and the unexpected opportunities some of these have brought since early 2020.
It might not have seemed so at the time but, these challenges and changes presented fantastic learning opportunities. So it is an excellent time of year to reflect and think about everything we've learned over the year.
Start by asking yourself a few questions:
- What have I learned over this last year, and how am I using this?
- What challenges have I overcome, or changes have I adapted to that bring me benefits that I'd like to keep?
- What have I got rid of that didn't serve me well, and what difference has that made?
- What has been my top achievements this last year?
- What am I most proud of in the last year that makes me light up when I think about it?
- How do I want to use these and bring them into my New Year?
It's not always easy to switch off, forget about our worries, and quiet our busy minds when the holidays arrive. I've pulled together some tips that have worked for us and some of our friends and colleagues; hopefully, one or two might appeal to you:
- Digital Detox?we are all ON constantly throughout the year. There is a lot of evidence about the impact on sleep and concentration that a significant amount of screen time and constant connection can have. So give yourself the gift of disconnecting – no LinkedIn, No Twitter, no phone, tablet or laptop – you can do this even if you try it for two whole days and observe and notice the difference it makes. The festive period is a time of year where we can make this a conscious choice.?
- Get into nature –?this makes a massive difference to our mental health, connecting with the sights, sounds and smells of the fresh air wherever you're able to step in nature. Slow down, notice and embrace your surroundings; what do you see and feel as you observe and change your pace.?
- Dive into reading –?When was the last time you gave yourself the gift of immersing yourself in a non-business book? This can be a great way to allow your brain to switch off and become engrossed in something outside of work and daily life.?
- Pump up the exercise –?often not what first comes to mind when we think of Christmas and New Year holidays, but it can be great for increasing our brain plasticity and neural connections, and it's good for our mental wellbeing. Why not try out something you've always fancied but keep putting off – it is a great time to try a group sport, perhaps with family and friends who are also on holiday.
- Spread Kindness and Joy –?Smile and speak to the strangers you pass on your walk, do something spontaneous for a neighbour or friend, volunteer locally to support those who won't have the same joy this Christmas. Reach out and do something with no expectation of reciprocity. This can make a difference in a stranger's day and bring you a greater sense of humanity, connectedness and joy.
We hope one or two of our shared thoughts might be helpful to you this holiday season and would love to hear if you try any out.
We are wishing everyone a peaceful, restful and relaxing holiday.
