Wrapping It Up
Winter is upon us. And when I picture this season, the images that come to mind include twinkling white lights calling us to peaceful merriment, the scent of Christmas trees and giant pine wreaths, the joy of baking goodies, visiting with those near and far, and the excitement of finding gifts for loved ones—expected and unexpected.
But now that the post-festivity letdown has nestled itself in my mind, I am percolating on the phrase ruthlessly intentional.
At first blush, I thought that meant being deeply committed to intentionality, which describes my character. But as I read the definition of ruthless again (having or showing no pity or compassion for others), I knew that wasn’t the right word.
And being a word person, I had to find a better phrase. What I eventually landed on was conscientiously intentional.
Conscientious: (of a person) wishing to do what is right, especially to do one’s work or duty well and thoroughly,
Intentional: done on purpose; deliberate
In other words, I want to do the right actions, at the right time, with the right people—conscientiously intentional.
And when I feel out of alignment (mind, body, soul, or spirit), I have to ask myself if it’s an opportunity for growth or if I need to take a different action.
This season I really tried to be intentional about what I said “yes” and “no” to. I paused before answering—from others or my internal voice about what I “should” do during the holidays—and asked myself if the request would bring me joy and fulfillment or if I was saying yes out of obligation. It was a really interesting exercise in saying yes enthusiastically or feeling confident with my nos.
A podcast episode with Priya Parker and Jen Hatmaker partially inspired this focus. In this must-listen episode, they discussed why some events feel so meaningful while others fall flat and how to find more significance and less stress in holiday gatherings.
Priya also has a great article on The Art of Guesting.
Latest Podcasts
- The Transition Bridge Podcast with Debi Ronca, Topic: Co-Dependency Listen here
- Real Life Diabetes Podcast with Amber Clour: The Gift of Good Enough (perfectionism) Listen here
- Find the whole 2022 podcast library here
December Articles
- How to Focus and Hack Your Life
- Non-Awkward Dating Icebreakers
- 135 Best Christmas Icebreakers and Games
- How to Make Unforgettable Eye Contact In Any Situation
- The Dunning-Kruger Effect: What It Is and How to Manage It
- What is Negative Reinforcement (and Does It Really Work?)
Favorite books of 2022:
Other Faves
What to Do with Our Short, Precious Life with Kate Bowler (hosted by Glennon Doyle): Kate always makes me laugh and has the most delicious phrases that I wish I was clever enough to write. In this episode, I particularly loved the acknowledgment of grief and loss during the holidays (because, yes, it’s real), and why it’s time to throw out expressions like “Everything is possible” and “What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger,” and rewrite our cultural cliches.” Listen here.
Menopause Barbie: If you are a woman of a certain age, you might like this zany, but very informative YouTube doctor who calls herself Menopause Barbie. Her channel is a wealth of information so you can make decisions to go through perimenopause and menopause armed with knowledge. Watch here.
