Release for the Holiday
One of our family holiday traditions is alternating who hosts Christmas Day and this year was our turn. I always look forward to the extra decorating, shopping, and prepping so when a family member requested they host this year in their new home, I didn’t feel relieved or grateful, but instead immediate disappointment. And then I remembered this powerful quote by Cheryl Richardson:
“Plans change. People disappoint. Traditions expire. Release your expectations of the holidays and be open to surprise”.
The holidays bring more of everything—parties, shopping, food, and expectations. What you likley need more of is space—to breathe, connect, and remember what is truly most important. Expectations are limiting and focus on the future, often leading to hurt and disappointment.
Releasing your expectations gives you the space and freedom to embrace things as they are instead of how you think they should be. This release also keeps you in the present moment, which is where your peace and joy reside. It feels good, and that’s why presence is the P in the CPR Self-Leadership skills that support your well-being.
What holiday expectation could you release to create more peace and joy?
Here are a few ideas:
- Thinking you must host the holiday just because it’s your turn
- Trying to create the perfect gift, tree, or meal
- Your control over the weather, the price of a cheese plate or how everyone shows up
- Fantasizing your spouse’s work party will be a perfect and magical evening
- Your attachment that everyone has a deeply rich and meaningful experience at the tree-cutting, zoo lights, or gift exchange
- Pretending you still have plenty of time to finish your shopping, wrapping and baking
- Your life-long wait for the pony
Everything can feel harder this time of year. If you find yourself triggered, disappointed, or hurt, release your expectations and open to surprise.