A Holiday Pep Talk
Let’s reflect on some of the good things to come from 2020, and how we can carry them with us through the holidays and into next year.
Smack dab in the middle of holidays, and with the end of the year just around the corner, the buzz has been an interesting mix of lamenting and embracing this season. While things are certainly different, I don’t think it has to be either/or situation. There are definitely aspects about which to feel sorrowful. I know many of us will be celebrating with fewer loved ones. There’s an eagerness to say goodbye to the difficulties of 2020. But we know that turning the page on the calendar is not like waving a magic wand, and some of this will continue next year. In addition to acknowledging our disappointments, we can try to reflect on some of the truly good things to come out of the past year. If you’re having a hard time putting that into practice, here are several ways we’re attempting to reframe our reality:
Instead of: We can’t go anywhere.
Try: We can make this home the best for us.
We don’t need to sugarcoat it: Staying safe at home has been a long haul. Although there’s hope on the horizon, our homes will be a critical place for us for the foreseeable future. I’m hearing many people wanting to invest more into their homes. Increased time indoors has shone a spotlight on what’s working (or not working) in our spaces and inspired us to think about how our homes can better reflect our style and needs. As always, if this is something that’s been on your mind, please reach out to us. I’d love to have a conversation and get the ball rolling on making your home one you love.
Instead of: It’s the same thing every day.
Try: It’s the ideal time to create new family traditions.
More time all together as a family has meant creating new rhythms at home, and months of the same routine can start to feel monotonous. On the upside, the holidays can give us that boost of novelty and comfort we crave. Special decorations, special foods, even special music. This year has prompted us to embrace some fun traditions, such as family movie night, that I’m excited to give a holiday twist.
Instead of: I miss the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping.
Try: I can spend my dollars to support struggling small businesses.
Throughout this year, many of us have felt renewed conviction to support local and small businesses. This is something we can keep in mind when holiday shopping, too. We may not be doing as much in-person shopping, but we aren’t limited to big online stores. Lots of artisans, makers, and independent businesses are eager for our patronage this time of year. Their websites may not be set up for super quick online shopping, but check their social media or give them a call, and see the creative ways they can help you shop that may be even more personal. Shop now to allow for extra prep and shipping time. If you’re looking for a few ideas, sign up for our newsletter to find a few of our local vendors and their fantastic products.
Instead of: We’re missing out on so many social events.
Try: We have an excuse to embrace a slower holiday season.
In years past, the month of December has felt like one long marathon of holiday decorating, shopping, parties, school events, and to-dos. It can be a challenge to make time for the small and quiet moments that matter. I’m looking forward to saying “yes” to more time with my family without having to say “no” to a bunch of other things. They simply aren’t happening this year, and I’m okay with taking that break.
As we celebrate the holidays and close out one of the strangest years we’ve ever experienced, we’ll all be feeling a mix of emotions. While there’s plenty we’ll want to leave behind, hopefully, some of these attitudes will stay with us after the pandemic is long-gone. In the meantime, I, and my team wish you a warm and hope-filled holiday season.
Until next time,
