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During the holidays we all have more demands and expectations than the rest of the year. Schedules are tighter, social activities are more abundant and we still have to keep up with our regular schedules. There are three important tools to use in order to stay in front of the increased demands and stress so that we can enjoy and remember the holidays.

1. Take time to “come home”. What I mean by this is to look closely at what is important to your heart by writing down every day some very simple and specific needs that you have. By doing this, you focus on accomplishing the most important things for you which will make you more available to yourself and to your family. By writing them down you stay focused on them and you can confidently cross them off at the end of the day. It is important to be realistic as to not set yourself up to fail. This may sound too simple but once you work with it for a day or two, you’ll see the power behind its simplicity.

2. In the moment of stress use a silent tool. As you look around you or you feel pulled or demanded of, ask yourself, “If in this moment I chose[ peace, love, joy] what would I [do, be or say]? This takes literally a few seconds and the answer comes loud and clear. Be sure to listen and follow through and you will be blessed with more peace.

3. The last but very important tool is to choose gratitude. Many events occur during one day. Most may be challenging and a few may be rewarding. Regardless of the balance between challenging and rewarding events, focus on the ones that bring you joy only. By doing this, the other aspects of your day are less charged and don’t contribute to your momentum forward. The thoughts/actions/feelings of gratitude will be your guide since you are focusing on those. More rewarding events will follow the thought of gratitude.

In addition, for those of you who are seeking assistance with crippling depression and anxiety, check out the websites below. There is free service, community services and references to books and tapes. Many blessings to you and your family during the holiday season!

Self-confidence.com: Free 6 part course, building self esteem and confidence
Wellnessbooks.com: offering books on all aspects of well-being
Selfgrowth.com: the most complete directory for well-being
Dr-self-help.com: your gateway to tranquility on the web
Anxietyrecovery.com: offering anxiety disorder recovery
Healthanswers.com: empowers the most current interaction
Jobstresshelppate.com: online assistance for job stress