Its 69 days until Christmas

 I found myself going into panic mode and took a few deliberate calming breaths. Yes I had three major things on my To Do list at the beginning of the year and I have only managed to accomplish one of those things. That was no reason to give myself a stroke! At this point it would take a lot more resources than I have at my disposal (and a miracle) to check the other two boxes. That being said, I had accomplished one goal and I feel pretty good about myself! I will redouble my efforts to accomplish at least one more goal before the end of the year.

Important lessons learned in 2021

One of the important lessons I think we learned this year is the importance of practicing self-care. Some of us who were previously of the opinion that the practice of self-care was for the mentally unstable, are touting its benefits to anyone who would listen. If you are in the habit of practicing self-care you would know that you should always focus on the positives in life. You would also know that you should be kind to yourself and avoid being too critical of your own shortcomings. Don’t focus on what you don’t have or what you haven’t accomplished, focus instead on what you have managed to accomplish and celebrate small wins.  

If you haven’t accomplished much this year, remember to go easy on yourself.  The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected our lives. Almost everyone I know have lost a loved one or survived COVID-19 themselves. With all that has happened this year, if you managed to set attainable life goals then I say kudos to you! If you managed to accomplish any of the goals you set yourself then I say well done! Despite the adverse circumstances, you managed to stay focused! Celebrate!

Prioritize family and loved ones

The other important lesson we all learned this year is to prioritize the people who are important to us. The importance of spending quality time with family and loved ones has never been more apparent. Everyone I know has become hyper-aware of the fragility of life and the fact that circumstances can change in a heartbeat. Most of us have resolved to change the ratio of our work- life balance in favor of family life. Many have resolved to be more expressive of love and forgiveness.

One of my friends recently confessed that pre-covid, he habitually missed family gatherings because of work commitments. Recently he has helped create opportunities and organize events for his family to gather more frequently!  With the holidays fast approaching, I can imagine he is busy planning elaborate family-themed holiday events!

What are your plans for the holidays?

What are you plans for the holidays this year? Its 69 days until Christmas so if you don’t have plans as yet, it’s time to start working on one! Usually, I make early plans to travel to family and friends for the holidays. This year will be different because I have already used all my vacation days for 2 unplanned trips to Guyana.

The first trip in late July was to visit with my ailing mom and the second trip in September was sadly to attend her funeral.  Unfortunately, it was necessary to take additional unpaid days off this month as well. This means that except for my birthday in November, I have no vacation days left! Nonetheless, despite the setback I plan to make the best of my situation and invite family and friends to visit me during the holidays! Wish me luck as I send out late invitations and begin to put together MY family-themed holiday event in beautiful Antigua!