You’ll often hear me refer to December as the perfect time of year to focus on yourself. It’s counterintuitive as you’re probably running around right now like a mad person, trying to get everything done before 2014 disappears.
Or maybe you’ve already exhausted yourself and entered a catatonic state of denial.
I’ve already visited both extremes this month. Hey, I’m human too.
There’s one important detail I want you to remember before we hit holiday havoc.
This is your time.
With winter being a season perfectly fitting for quiet introspection, it makes me crazy as a Feng Shui coach to see all my clients running around in circles with every end-of-the-year responsibilities you can think of. No self care time whatsoever.
I get it. That’s just the way it goes, right?
Not on my clock! I am putting my foot down. (Gently and lovingly) But it’s down. And it’s firmly planted. I will not lift it back up until you’ve agreed to three simple rules that you must follow to get you through this holiday season.
Or you can just miss the boat on a year full of abundance. It’s up to you.
So here’s how we’re gonna get you in shape for the season.
House Rules. In no particular order.
- Show some gentle love. Take a look at a part of your life that’s bothering you, whether it’s an emotional upheaval or just a nagging nuisance. For me, it’s my money section. (Yup, I worry about that too) While it’s generally a lovely area, lately I’m feeling that it needs some good ole TLC. Here’s how I did that: First, a major clean up to show that area some love. Next, I hired a Money Coach to help me get all my ducks in order. My general rule of thumb: When the going get tough, the tough calls in an expert. What are your areas that need a little TLC or backup?
- Know how much is enough. That goes for everything in your life. Holiday parties, shopping and time with family can all take their toll. It’s all about boundaries. Don’t allow yourself to be swayed into things that could drain your energy as it’s essential to gauge when your inner home has had enough. With your outer home, be sure that your areas stay well defined. For example, be sure that your office or tax paperwork doesn’t spill into your Relationship section. It’s not a good mix for obvious reasons so keep it contained folks!
- Take time. I can’t stress this enough. You worked on your outer home and created some healthy boundaries, now it’s time to look at your inner home. Wake up 30 minutes earlier to meditate. Replace one task/obligation each week with something relaxing for yourself instead. Or just lie still in bed for 10 minutes before you start your day. Keep your eyes open and focus on your breathing. It’ll feel strange at first, but only while you and yourself get through the courting period.
Take an oath to yourself and follow these steps on a daily basis. Write them on a Post-it and keep them on your fridge or computer screen. Any place that you will look at every single day. Visual reminders are the best way to create habits. So get your Post-its out and let’s start some self kindness habits.
Start your new year off on the right foot! Check out my kick-butt promo that is focused on prepping you for the Year of the Wood Goat in 2015. There’s no better way to success than to show up prepared.
