Merry and Bright!

The holiday season can be a very festive time. But, expectations to be joyous can make us feel stressed. This year, especially in the face of the pandemic, we may need a little help to stay merry and bright. Here are three things to try in any situation that gets you down.

1. Stay in the moment. On the road to any lofty goal, whether it's enjoying the holidays or publishing a book, try not to focus on all the variables ahead but what's actually happening now. Being in control is comforting; think about what you can do in the moment and take things one step at a time.

2. Reframe the situation. Try to think of something negative in a different way that’s still realistic but more helpful. For example, instead of saying, It won't feel like the holiday season if I can't get together with my friends, try, I'm going to be really creative and find a safe way to connect with my friends.

3. Take the next step. When we're down about something it may be hard to move away from what's upsetting us. On the path to our goals, there are often disappointments and setbacks. Try to remember that's all they are—bumps in the road. The best way to feel better is to think what's the very next thing you can do to move forward. It's amazing how one small move in the right direction can gain momentum.

I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season, with good health and lots of goal attainment!