Do you ever find yourself rushing to the store on Black Friday to get a deal on something you probably don’t even need? Instead, take the time this holiday to be present in the moment and thankful for everything and everyone you have in your life. This little mindset switch will give you the opportunity to enjoy the holidays more with loved ones.
Change Your Mindset
Gratitude
Gratitude is the quality of being thankful, readiness to show appreciation, and to return kindness. Studies show that people who are grateful for everything they have in life experience higher levels of positive emotions such as joy, enthusiasm, love, happiness, and optimism. These levels of positive emotions allow people to effectively cope with environmental stress and become increasingly more resilient.
Kindness and Empathy
Two of the most important human characteristics to have are kindness and empathy. Being kind to others can completely change someone’s day for the better, even if they’re a random person you’ve never met before. A small gesture of a smile or wave gives that other person a sense of hope and optimism that they may not otherwise get to experience on a daily basis. You never know what people are going through and it’s important to understand what they are feeling, even if you may not share the same experiences.
Kindness is a win-win because it not only helps others but also helps your own personal health. Those who exemplify kindness have increased levels of happiness, improved relationships, and slows down the aging process.
Waking up today
You have to be thankful for waking up today and being given the opportunity to better yourself and the people around you. Making today better than yesterday gives you a sense of purpose and the ability to make a difference in other people’s lives. No matter what you are currently going through, today is another opportunity to turn that wall into a hurdle and pursuing your best-self.
Challenges/ Thank Yourself
No matter where you come from or your current life circumstances, every single person is dealing with challenges. Although some may be more difficult than others, it is all about perspective. The challenges we face allow us to grow into stronger, more resilient people. We have to thank ourselves for facing it head on and getting through those tough times, while also acknowledging the negative and focusing on the positive. Thanking yourself can be as small as taking yourself out to your favorite café!
Volunteer
Volunteering at local food pantries and shelters is an important thing to be doing during the holiday season. Often times people do not have anyone to spend the holidays with so you being there with a smile on your face can have a significant impact on their life. Be there for others who are less fortunate and continue to help your community out in any way possible!
With this in mind, what will you be doing this holiday season? Remember to stay present and be thankful for everything in your life.
