Did you know Christmas in July is actually a thing? Did you also know that it didn't begin as marketing for the summer slump?
It began as a fun event at a summer camp in North Carolina in 1933! It continued to evolve and it was around 1950 when retailers started getting involved.
I’ve decided to use this time to check my list (maybe twice) to see how I'm doing with maintaining my Christmas spirit!
Am I remembering to smile and spread good cheer?
If not, am I caught up in my worries and concerns? I heard a quote once (unfortunately I don’t know the author) that said, “Worry is like a rocking chair…it gives you something to do, but doesn’t get you anywhere.”
Am I spending quality time with my furry loved ones, family & friends?
If not, am I spending the bare minimum of time with them? Or perhaps I’m too busy with work or other projects to deeply connect? What if I set an alarm on the phone as a reminder to connect with my beloved pet, friend or family member?
Have I been kind and giving to myself and others?
If not, have I been critical and judgmental of myself for mistakes made or even making the mistake of not taking others into consideration? A young girl once suggested that we see our mistakes as smiles!
Do I cut myself and others some slack knowing it’s a stressful time?
If not, what can I do to remind myself that everyone is faced with the immense and intense changes occurring in the world? I remind myself everyone is dealing with something!
Am I staying Present and aware of what’s happening around me?
If not, how will I keep myself in the present moment? Maybe I can use a grounding exercise or the 5-4-3-2-1 exercise!
How am I doing with gratitude and appreciation?
Do I spend time each morning and/or evening to recall things I’m grateful for and people I appreciate (and what I appreciate about them)?
Am I noticing the effect my stress has on others (especially my animal companions)?
If not, I can take a few breaths and watch the behaviors of my pet or those around me. I then ask myself how my own stress may be affecting them in an unproductive way. I can put on some soothing music to create a more peaceful atmosphere for all of us.
Being in the spirt of Christmas all year long is beneficial to your furry loved ones, those around you and maybe most importantly, yourself! So I invite everyone to take a moment and check your list and make adjustments as necessary! If you don’t have a list, feel free to use mine!
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