It’s December 8th and people are already asking, “Are you ready for Christmas?”
My answer this year is, “No, I’m enjoying the season.”
The holidays often feel like a blur. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush and forget to pause. But sometimes, slowing down can be just as impactful as pushing forward.
Here’s a trick I learned a few years ago: Every night, ask yourself what moment of that day you were happiest.
My daughter and I did this every night when she was five. My answers would usually be things like, “When I picked you up from Grandma’s and you ran up to hug me” or “When we all sat together at the table for dinner and laughed about what you and your friends did at school.” Her answers were all over the place – things like “When I had dessert,” or “When I almost fell but then I DIDN’T,” or sweet little memories like “When I got to sit on your lap while we watched TV” or “When the teacher said I was good at reading.”
This simple practice taught us to slow down and appreciate the small things. It helped us notice the bright spots in our day. As I went through each day, I’d catch myself thinking, “This might be today’s happiest moment!” And at my daughter’s bedtime, we’d reflect on the little glimmers of joy the day had given us and pick our one favorite.
I bring this practice back whenever life starts feeling too busy.
In business, as in life, presence matters. Whether it’s connecting with a client, noticing opportunities around you, spotting a small win, or recognizing your team’s efforts, taking a moment to truly notice can make all the difference.
This season, don’t just check the boxes. Pause, look for the bright spots, and be present.
