Okay, we all know the holidays bring up a lot of emotions. For some of us, those emotions are positive;  for others, they might carry anxieties or dread. They can even be a mixture – this is completely  normal. Take a moment and assess what feelings come up for you. Name them, and write them down.  I’ll wait…got it? Let’s talk about what you wrote down now. 

Regardless of what you wrote down, the number one most imperative piece of advice I can give you  is this: 

Focus on being present, not dwelling in the past. Your mind game is key, here. 

Not just the presents, but paying attention and putting your efforts and energies into what is  happening. Right now, in front of you. Engage in the meaningful moments, and savor the connections  with those you hold dear! This is what we mean by holiday spirit, after all. 

But this could also be the ϐirst holiday season you’re experiencing after losing someone close to you.  Or maybe the holidays simply do not feel the same, even though it’s been a few years, or a decade.  Breathe, and still write down the emotions that well up inside. 

The reality is that, when someone passes, we tend to wish we had just one more… Fill-in-the-blank  with whatever event or interaction was most meaningful to you with that person. To heal from this,  start to create memories based around things that go beyond tangible purchases. Bake the damn  cookies, if it reminds you of Grandma! Forget that to-do list. 

But take that focus on being present further. Be present for yourself – if it’s new traditions, new foods,  new experiences, new holiday companions. Remember the things that are important to you, the  actions that make you feel fulϐilled and celebratory. 

I always say life is about change, and then the question is how you navigate those changes as the  footprint of your life shifts from year to year. It’s okay for this to happen – and it’s even healthy! These  are the transitions I specialize in, with my coaching practice. 

Make sure you remember to set boundaries for yourself during this time. And contact your life coach  to begin to develop a new and better you. Let’s start to set yourself up for greater success next year  by planning ahead.