The holiday season is always, and forever will be, a special and reflective time in my life. From the time spent with family and friends to the Christmas music, tree, lights, and everything in between, this is a perfect time for individuals to feel grateful and joyous. Additionally, the end of the year is an ideal time frame for people to reflect on the overall direction of their respective lives, including the highs and lows of their professional careers and personal lives. Taking the time to unwind and mull over the past year is an outlet many individuals use as a way to recharge and cultivate their emotional stability. More often than not, the responsibilities of work, family, housekeeping, and other obligations have taken its toll on not only the body, but the mind as well. While I’ll always feel sentimental about the holiday season and encourage people to take the time to be grateful and pensive during them, I can’t help but ponder, “Why can’t everyone be like this all the time?!”

In terms of staying humble and appreciative of life around the clock, even when the ebb and flow of daily living takes it toll, there are still ways to give thanks, experience gratitude, and prepare for the overflowing amount of love and joy that surround us. Accepting more and expecting less in our lives is a practice that you could begin at this present moment if you so desired. There are going to be situations and other things that are out of your control, however, learning to accept what is offers a wonderful anecdote to a heavy heart. What’s more, it helps provide a greater sense of control and grants relief when feeling stuck in a rut. Something that I tell myself from time to time when I’m in a challenging situation is, “This may be difficult, and I’m not particularly fond of it, but I know I can overcome it. I have a wonderful life and have overcome adversity before, therefore, there’s no reason I can’t handle this.” Moreover, reminding yourself of all the positive and inspiring facets of your life is another easy outlet to staying grounded. Additional ways to stay grateful year-round, and not just during the holidays, include:

• Find the Meaning: Even in the most bleak and dire of circumstances, there’s a meaning behind it. By asking yourself, “what does this mean, and what can it teach me?” you can stay mindful and focus on a greater purpose in life.
• Forgive and Forget: How many of us hold a grudge against someone or something that’s happened to us in our lives? Forgiveness is one of the healthiest and most stabilizing emotions to improve well-being and gratitude.

While many might find it challenging and virtually impossible to find ways to recharge in the fast-paced, constantly-evolving world that every single day seems to be more tech driven, there are still practical activities and exercises that you can utilize that help recharge your batteries. One of my favorite ways to rejuvenate is to take my dog, Charlie, on a walk outside and get some fresh air. It’s incredible the differences in my mindset and overall mood from the moment I walk out the door to take him on the walk to when I walk in the door afterwards. There’s just something about the beauty of nature and the genuine enthusiasm that he has for the great outdoors that stimulates my mental well-being and improves my state of mind. Furthermore, other activities that I suggest to help invigorate and boost your spirits include, but are not limited to: a) Spending time with family and/or friends; b) Reading a book, newspaper, or periodical; c) Listening to a podcast, music artist, or station, among others; d) Exercise of any kind (Aerobic or Anaerobic); and, e) Taking a tech break. Yes, you read that last letter correctly. Arguably, my favorite time of the day is when I’m relaxing at home with my family, my phone is nowhere near me, and it’s impossible for anyone to communicate with me. Even though I enjoy having a cell phone and all of the conveniences it offers, it can be absolutely taxing on my energy level if I’m on it too often. At night, don’t put your phone right by your head, and if you can, turn off both your mobile device and your wireless Internet to give yourself a break from the frequencies.

By staying present and cognizant and finding meaning in all facets of life, you’ll find that your life will be much more fulfilling. Even during the difficult times, the right people and circumstances will come along. Don’t ever give up. You will reach your potential and fulfill your dreams if you remain grateful through the difficult times and faithful to the end. Life is a precious and valuable commodity that we’re all privileged to experience. Take a moment or two everyday to look around and take in everything that life has to offer. Make every effort to enjoy and be grateful for everything that you have because life’s too short and precious not to do so.

What are some ways that help you remain grateful and reflective in your life?

Thank you for reading!

— Chris