One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving. I so enjoy not only the time to be with family but also the food that goes along with this holiday. I really love getting in the kitchen with my daughter and mom and preparing for that big day. My kitchen is a complete mess by the end, but it all comes together. We then take a break and drink a cup of tea or coffee and I have truly found my happy place.
Thanksgiving is a time to wind down and if you are able to go into that mode of “rest” it can do wonders for you and your family. Doing my best to turn off work and totally engage with family is my goal this Thanksgiving.
As we built the university, I can remember many times of stress. I got on such a mode of work and pushing myself that I honestly could not totally give into this time of rest and relaxation with family and friends. I know that I was not fully into this time of year because of the stress from work and life.
Since then I have learned that taking time during Thanksgiving is mandatory for my life. I have to shut down to mend and be refreshed. Being “chilled out” during this holiday is something I now look forward to. I encourage you to do the same. Time flies by and so you have to grab those precious moments with your children who are off from school and your parents are in town. Take time to sit and relax. Your job will be there when you get back to work on that Monday. As I do this, my life has come into a more restful but productive pace. I even work and think better now.
During this Thanksgiving make it your goal to be in that restful mode to benefit you and your family. Here are a few tips that I follow during the holiday season:
- Mentally prepare yourself a few days before to wind down and to get in that mode of rest.
- Plan ahead on what you are cooking. Make time to get in the kitchen with your family to either bake or just have a cup of coffee.
- Tell yourself it is ok to rest and to relax
- Plan fun events whether it’s playing games or going to the movies
I encourage you to follow these tips. Enjoy your Thanksgiving this year and many years to come!
Chantell
