'This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.' The Dalai Lama
Do you or someone you know get the holiday blues? You're not alone.
For so many the winter holidays are anything but joyful. Whether it's missing a loved one who already passed, or dealing with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or ghosts from the past--depression and a sense of social isolation can move in during the cold winter months.
Warm up your days by reaching out to others--and give what you'd like to get--a bit of human kindness. As difficult as it may be to initiate contact when you're not at your best, you'll discover the connection is as good for you as it is for the others.
Face Life with an Open Mind, Faith, Love and Kindness
Choose to face your winter blues with an open mind, faith, love and kindness. Open your heart to reach out to others through little concrete acts of kindness. These acts of kindness do not need to take a lot of time so you can pace yourself according to your energy level. Start small and let each new act of kindness towards others re-energize and lift your own spirits.
The greatest gift you can give yourself is a life fully engaged with others. Kindness towards others will come back to you tenfold. The smallest act of kindness--a smile, a well-wishing, a thank you, or praise for a job well done-- can have a big impact in the life of others and brighten your own.
A Year of Giving-- A Year of Happiness
If you want more love and happiness in the New Year, commit to consciously and generously give of yourself to others each and every day. Don't wait for others to come to you and don't wait until you have enough money. The most important things to give do not cost anything but your time.
How to be Kind? Let Me Count the Ways....
- Look for ways to give people recognition and praise for a job well done daily.
- Give thanks for the gifts others provide you. Let them know they matter.
- Give your time--volunteer, read a book with a child, help in a classroom.
- Provide a listening ear--provide empathy, love and hope.
- Do concrete acts of caring--Write a letter, lend a book, make a phone call, spend time visiting, make a work referral.
- Give back to your community--collect food and clothing for the needy, participate in clean up efforts to beautify your environment.
Don't Just Sit There--Do One Act of Kindness Right Now!
- What do you have to offer others?
- What can you give that would make you feel good about yourself?
- What would you like to receive from others?
Do you need help cultivating a more compassionate and productive attitude towards yourself and others? For more than 30 years, Susan Meyerott has been helping people lighten up and step over invisible barriers to change one step at a time. She speaks to your heart, puts you at ease, and makes changing easier than ever before. Contact Susan to schedule individual or on-going coaching sessions.
