As many gather this week with family and friends, it can be easy to slip into patterns of perfectionism or people-pleasing. But with a little patience and mindfulness, we can let our holiday gatherings highlight what they naturally offer — connection, belonging, tradition, storytelling, and love.
Savor the small moments: cherish a tight embrace, a laugh around the table, scents drifting from the kitchen, a few breaths of fresh air.
Protect your energy: step away when you need to; lead with kindness — toward others and yourself.
Notice the good: holiday gatherings aren’t perfect, and they don’t need to be. What we can do is focus our mindset on the good things around us and breathe through the challenges that arise.
May this season bring you moments of presence, warmth, and genuine connection.
Write It
Journal Prompts
What moments of connection or tradition am I looking forward to this week, and why?
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How can I show gratitude and kindness to those I’ll be sharing the holidays with?
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When gatherings feel overwhelming, what grounding practices help me return to myself?
Say It
Affirmations
Presence over perfection.
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I meet this season with compassion for myself and others.
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I welcome an abundance of meaningful moments, big and small.
Try It
Action Items
Give a Gratitude Note
Grab our new Gratitude Notes, write “Thank you for…”, and stick it where they’ll see it. This is a simple gratitude practice for home, work, family, friends, kids, teens, and couples!
Explore It
Resources & Links
How To Experience The Holidays With Presence (Article) — The Good Trade
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