How can we achieve “Being Open to the Holidays”? We all have different expectations and different reasons to celebrate the holiday season; such as religion, family and friends, presents, decorations, parties, food, or giving to those less fortunate. As I was thinking about the many different reasons for this holiday season and how we can be open to these experiences I thought of two questions: “What is the joy of simply being open to life? “How can I accomplish this as I prepare for the holidays and on Christmas Day?” As these questions are answered you will gain insight and understanding which will allow you the ability to create and make this holiday season the best ever and then continue to apply these principles in the coming New Year.
For me the joy of simply being open to life is being open to the challenges that are presented to me each and every day. The joy is in choosing to look at these experiences as opportunities to learn more about myself, about others, and about life. The joy is in the insights and awareness’s I receive which supports me in looking at life with love and acceptance. This creates more joy.
Joy is created as we accept our self and others for who we are – weaknesses and strengths. We can only do this when we choose to let go of our expectations. Expectations can set us up for disappointment. We can’t control what other people choose to say or do. We can only control our own choices. Begin to recognize words that tell you your in expectations – I should, I have to, I need to, I’m expected to – and instead ask yourself, “Do I want to do this?”
Recognizing whether you are doing something because you want to or because of expectations will support you in how you approach the decision you do make and then how you follow through – either with joy or dread. If you feel “dread” then expectations are in play. If you choose to do something that you dread, take time to think about it and choose to become aware of why you feel that way. Then you can begin looking for the positive reasons why you are choosing to do something instead of feeling you have too. Remember, you are in control of making the choice, and because of that you are in control of either making it a dreadful experience or a joyful experience.
For some of us this will take daily focus on taking responsibility for all of our choices. Everything we do is a choice. If you choose to take a risk and not do something that is expected of you look at it as an opportunity to practice saying “NO”. Saying “No” and choosing “You” is okay!! You don’t have to make excuses and you don’t have to blame yourself or someone else for the choice that you make.
How can we let go of our expectations as we prepare for Christmas Day – by turning them into Intentions? Once we have identified our expectations, there is a much greater possibility of attaining freedom from being disappointed in others behavior and their reaction to us, and in being disappointed in our self. You can learn how to reframe your expectations into Intention. Expectations are what you think ought to happen as a result of what you do, say, or plan. It’s dependant upon an outside source. Whereas, Intentions are your approach to life based on the person you truly are – your essence. It’s dependant only on you – your internal source. When you are focused on your Intention you become focused in the present and you become open to life around you.
What’s so wonderful is that when you act out of Intention instead of expectations, you begin to experience the joy of being open to life and you expand the possibility for more positive outcomes. When you live in Intention you are able to find your courage and make the choices that support the person you are truly meant to be. Setting an intention can support you in having your best holiday season ever. Take the time to visualize what it is that you want to happen this holiday season. Ask yourself these questions; how do I want to show up and how can I create my best holiday season ever?
Gratitude’s are also valuable in supporting your intention and turning your holiday experience into something good that will help not only you but other people as well. Gratitude’s help you to recognize all that is right and beautiful in your life and in your day. Gratitude’s help you to acknowledge your fine qualities, abilities, and accomplishments. Gratitude’s support you in spending your time and energy in the moment rather than trying to understand the why. When you are in a state of Gratitude you allow your peaceful voice of intuition to become your primary guiding force.
Gratitude’s do more than make you feel good for awhile, they literally change the way you think. Gratitude’s shift your focus so that you are aware of what you have instead of what you don’t have. When you make Gratitude’s an important part of your day this holiday season, you will increase your ability to see opportunities and possibilities where perhaps none existed before.
As Christmas Day approaches make a list of all the people and things in your life that you are grateful for. Try to put aside any dread, anger, resentment, or disappointment and focus on creating good thoughts. Think about the opportunities and possibilities that are available to you on that day. Set an intention around how you want to show up on Christmas Day. Become clear in your mind as to what you want to experience and what will support you in achieving that goal. Setting an intention, being grateful, looking for opportunities and possibilities, and being clear on what it is that you want will help you to focus on the present moment and enjoy what is happening now.
I wish you the best Holiday Season ever!!!
Blessings, Joyce
I would enjoy hearing your comments on what “Being Open to the Holidays” means to you…
Joyce Henderson
Certified Fearless Living Coach
Certified Life Purpose and Career Coach
joyce@unlockingyourvision.com
JoyceHenderson@FearlessLiving.org
www.unlockingyourvision.com
www.thedolphinmovie.com
858 945-4928 cell/work
858 486-4928 home
858 486-6407 fax
