EPISODE · Nov 25, 2020 · 12 MIN
Creating Christmas Calm through managing expectations
from Creating Connection · host Kim Ross
In this episode, I explore expectations and confidence around Christmas and reducing Christmas Stress. What is on your 'should do' list and what is on your 'want to do' list? Do they overlap at all? And what to do about it. What happens when you step back and simply observe all the expectations and how it feels to have them? Look at them again. Where have they come from? Are they necessary, and important, do they enhance Christmas time? You can see the ‘shoulds’ and ‘have tos’ for what they are; they aren’t rules by which you have to live by, they aren’t absolute truths, they are just thoughts your mind is holding on to. By seeing this you can you can choose to let go of expectations that have no meaning or satisfaction for you. And knowing this you can choose. Making your own choices You can choose to participate in activities leading up to Christmas that you value. That brings joy to your heart and that of your family. You can choose activities that focus on kindness, gratitude, and togetherness. You don’t need to be religious to tap into the goodwill that exists at this time of the year when most people are actively trying to make other people happy. There is a lot of freedom that comes with being an adult and having so many choices to make. We might feel the heavy weight of expectations, but when we lose that weight it is not just freeing, it also exposes us and makes us vulnerable. I think that is one reason why treading your own path at Christmas, in line with your values and not others' expectations, is so difficult, but for you, it might be the path to your Christmas calm, connection and confidence. ----------------------------- Loneliness often stems from a belief that no-one truly cares or understands you. To increase connection you start with an authentic and accepting understanding of yourself; then of others; and then of a deep appreciation for the natural world. By embracing your authenticity you invite confidence and calm into your life. How can you feel more connected? Join me, Kim Ross, Psychologist, as I delve into providing you with practical strategies to help you connect with yourself, others and the natural world. BEFORE YOU GO, CAN YOU DO ME A FAVOUR? If you like this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss upcoming episodes, and share with your friends. If you would like to help others understand how connection matters leaving a review is one of the best ways to do this. If you do so please let me know so I can read it on in an upcoming podcast. Thank you. And until next time, take care of yourself. Kim xx ---------------- Kim Ross, Psychologist and Founder of Positive Young Minds www.positiveyoungminds.com.au
What this episode covers
In this episode, I explore expectations and confidence around Christmas and reducing Christmas Stress. What is on your 'should do' list and what is on your 'want to do' list? Do they overlap at all? And what to do about it. What happens when you step back and simply observe all the expectations and how it feels to have them? Look at them again. Where have they come from? Are they necessary, and important, do they enhance Christmas time? You can see the ‘shoulds’ and ‘have tos’ for what they are; they aren’t rules by which you have to live by, they aren’t absolute truths, they are just thoughts your mind is holding on to. By seeing this you can you can choose to let go of expectations that have no meaning or satisfaction for you. And knowing this you can choose. Making your own choices You can choose to participate in activities leading up to Christmas that you value. That brings joy to your heart and that of your family. You can choose activities that focus on kindness, gratitude, and togetherness. You don’t need to be religious to tap into the goodwill that exists at this time of the year when most people are actively trying to make other people happy. There is a lot of freedom that comes with being an adult and having so many choices to make. We might feel the heavy weight of expectations, but when we lose that weight it is not just freeing, it also exposes us and makes us vulnerable. I think that is one reason why treading your own path at Christmas, in line with your values and not others' expectations, is so difficult, but for you, it might be the path to your Christmas calm, connection and confidence. ----------------------------- Loneliness often stems from a belief that no-one truly cares or understands you. To increase connection you start with an authentic and accepting understanding of yourself; then of others; and then of a deep appreciation for the natural world. By embracing your authenticity you invite confidence and calm into your life. How can you feel more connected? Join me, Kim Ross, Psychologist, as I delve into providing you with practical strategies to help you connect with yourself, others and the natural world. BEFORE YOU GO, CAN YOU DO ME A FAVOUR? If you like this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss upcoming episodes, and share with your friends. If you would like to help others understand how connection matters leaving a review is one of the best ways to do this. If you do so please let me know so I can read it on in an upcoming podcast. Thank you. And until next time, take care of yourself. Kim xx ---------------- Kim Ross, Psychologist and Founder of Positive Young Minds www.positiveyoungminds.com.au
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Creating Christmas Calm through managing expectations
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