Unbelievable, it's almost October! As winter and the winter holdiays approach, we sometimes feel overwhelmed with a to-do list that seems to multiply daily. Perhaps, you even feel a “little” stress this time of year! I know, some of you are already relieving your stress by having a great belly laugh at me stating a “little” stress! Laughter is one of the best ways to relive stress! For most people the holidays are the most stressful time of the year and we all know that it is not a healthy state of being.
Some say that “stressed” is just “desserts” spelled backwards! I love a good dessert! In fact, my dear mother has always taught us that you never know what might happen during a meal so you should always eat (or at least nibble) your dessert first.
This time of year my favorite dessert is anything pumpkin, especially cake! When I think about the stresses of the holidays, there are a few things that I find can be very helpful, in fact, if I pay closer attention to some of them, I find that all of this stress can really be a “piece of CAKE”.
The “C” reminds me to Create a Gratitude List and review it often. It is easy to think about what we don’t have this time of year with all of the commercialism that inundates us from the media, but how about items of gratitude? Try to embrace the good news that you find (like the Gazette!) and stay away from the bad stuff. In fact, as soon as you finish this article, take out a piece of paper and number 1-25 and record your personal gratitude list. Maybe they include family, friends, health, and even items like a washing machine – I don’t know about you, but I am glad I don’t have to beat my clothes on the rocks!
The “A” of our CAKE is to ASK for help! Sometimes we simply take on too much and we need to pare down our commitments. I am also a firm believer that we do not barter enough in this world. What are you especially good at that may benefit others and what might you ask for in return? It could be baking or child care or chopping wood, the list is endless. Take a moment and think about how asking for help might “slice” out a little more time for you and someone else!
Our dessert of life surely includes “K” for Kindness. It is amazing what happens when we share a little kindness. Look for the opportunities! It only takes a few minutes to make a difference! An added dose of kindness shouldn’t just be for the holiday season, of course, but it is a nice time to remember to choose our battles carefully and help others with theirs along the way.
Finally, “E” is for Embracing the moment. Often we rush without really embracing the moment and the people with whom we are sharing that moment. Strive to live in each moment and be engaged with those around you for that moment.
The next time you are feeling stressed, remember, it really is just “desserts” spelled backwards. When we think about Creating a gratitude list; Asking for help when needed; taking a few extra moments to show Kindness; and Embracing the moment, we might just find that life is certainly better with a big ‘ol slice of CAKE!
Now, start numbering….
Tammy Miller is both a professional auctioneer (also certified as a fundraising auctioneer) and a professional speaker, speech coach and author in the State College area. For information on ordering her latest books, or engaging her as a speaker for your next event, check out www.tammyspeaks.com.