December 2024 Leader Letter
Light Up Your Holiday IQ!
Get three quick ideas to pave the way for more peace and joy as the year ends.
It can be the most wonderful/stressful time of year for those celebrating end-of-year holidays. Can you feel it? Consider that you’re not alone: A 2023 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 89% of U.S. adults said they felt stressed at the holidays and 41% said their stress increased during this time compared with other points in the year.
Right now, take a pause. Reflect on expert tips for staying more emotionally intelligent this time of year, then pass the positivity to your team and community:
- First, put yourself first. Are you a leader, mom, husband, friend that is used to putting yourself last? Experts say it’s best to check in with yourself now more than ever. If you don’t do it any other time of the year, do it these next few weeks as your gift to you. Write in a journal, meditate, walk, exercise, listen to music—during work time or at the time of day you usually stay “buried.” It’s a sign of strength to allow yourself regular protected time alone. Vow to get grounded this month before the chaos sets in.
- Next, be curious about other celebrations. With more balance in your life, there’s room to learn about the various holidays your coworkers, teammates, and community/club members identify with. Inquire how they celebrate the holidays in their respective cultures. There are likely special foods, traditions regarding gifts, clothing styles, and holiday activities that may be different from what you are familiar with. Enjoy the opportunity to share holiday diversity within your group(s).
- Give and thrive. Perhaps the most meaningful holidays are those where gratitude meets charity. Donate, volunteer, and pay it forward, even if it is just your time being spent. If you’re giving a gift, consider your favorite charity, such as the Ralph C. Smedley Memorial Fund. You could also collect money for a family in need, make them a dinner, and/or buy gifts for their children. Experience the fulfillment in being generous to others.
Additional Resources:
Manage Holiday Stress or Blues With the Gift of Self-Care