How To Have A Happy Holiday

      I’m working lots lately, so time seems short and the house seems messy. My exercise regime (weak as it was) is no more. How do I deal with the clutter that seems to have wrapped me up, spiritually, emotionally and physically?

     There are steps to take to unwrap (even before Christmas) what is keeping you from going forward and finding peace and joy.

 1) Clean the Clutter

Our family room glows from the lights on our awesome flocked tree. White with red decorations. But still there is much clutter; wrapping paper, labels and gifts waiting to be wrapped. I don’t seem to have the energy to continue the decorating process. Mail and papers are stacked up in the kitchen and office. 

Clutter leads to chaos and confusion. Cleaning your surroundings will clean your mind, bring clarity and certainty in the uncertainty. Start with 15 minutes, this doesn’t take long and you will reach your destination. I help my grandson practice reading, sometimes he resists but I tell him he can do anything for 15 minutes. The table is set one plate at a time and before you know it, you’ll be ready for a feast.

Clean surface things you see the most, dust, vacuum, clean the toilets and clean a path so you can get to a place to sit down for a spell!

2) Create a List

If you’re not sure where to start, write it down. Make a list and check it twice. Cross the task off your list when it’s done. Organize your list with priorities at the top, don’t fret if you don’t get it all done. Sometimes I finish my list the next week. Seeing the list shrink and a section of clutter cleared is invigorating, like swimming a lap and coming up for air. 

3) Connections

Connections are crucial to life from the beginning. Studies have shown that infants who are cuddled thrive and survive. Connect to others, have coffee or tea with a friend. This will be like an electric cord that brings life and productivity. Maybe you will then be more motivated to tackle what needs done.

Connect to God. Your creator loves you beyond human comprehension. He’s with you and sustains you through anything. “ Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea,I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10. God’s many powerful promises will make your Holidays and everyday filled with peace.

Connect to yourself. This sounds selfish, but you have to take care of yourself or you’ll be no good to others. You will be refreshed and restored and then you can bring refreshing to others.

     I substitute teach and sometimes you have to remind chatty kids to calm down and be quiet.  I say, ”Zip it, lock it, put it in your pocket!” Using gestures helps them remember as you slide your fingers across your lips and the put the key in your pocket. I am reminding you to zip up the things that are keeping you wrapped, cluttered, stifled, cornered or frustrated. Lock the key and proceed down the hallway of life with peace and purpose giving you a sense of order and calm. 

Happy Holidays, Debbie