We are 19 days into November, and some would argue, it is officially the Holiday Season. This means many things, but for most of us, it means busy. These next few weeks will bring a lot of hurry and hustle. During times like these it is easy to fall into the trap of doing what is easy, instead of what is right. Keep reading for a few tips about doing what is right for your relationships, your neighbors, and your organization.
1. For your relationships
Take time this reflective time of year to say “thank you” to someone who has made your life better in some way. Too often, it’s too easy to take credit for our successes, when in fact the guidance, support, coaching, and example modeled by others is also a key component to our success.
· 
How: Make time to place that phone call, write that note, or send that email – and then schedule time on your calendar for next year to keep reflecting on and expressing appreciation for those who’ve helped you become who you are today.
2. For your neighbor
Whether at work or at home, be neighborly. Demonstrate courtesy and kindness to those around you. It’s easier to focus on what we’re each working on or what would be more fun for us, but it’s kinder to help those around us.
·
How: Hold a door for someone who has their hands full, pick up and throw away the trash on the floor or the counter – even if you didn’t put it there. Put on a smile if you’re greeting someone for the first time that day or that hour (regardless of your own mood – there’s no need to bring some unsuspecting bystander down). Offer to lend a hand if you have a skill or expertise that you can see would be helpful, and then step back when they’re ready to take it on their own from there.
3. For your organization
Close the year well. Holiday gatherings, seasonal lulls, cheery tunes and secret Santa extravaganzas all have the potential to take priority over the work that needs to be done. It’s easy to say “I’ll get to it next year”, but sometimes the right thing is to go ahead and finish it now.
How: Make time for fun and fellowship, but let’s see if we can do that without shirking on our responsibilities or avoiding work that needs to be done. Prioritize the things that really need to get done today (or this week, or this year), and make progress on those things before heading off to the festivities. Set a time limit for chit chat and cheddar corn, and then turn back to your desk and check one more thing off your to-do list.
The Holidays are a great way to connect and reconnect with family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Now you have a few more tips on how to do just that! What do you do right over the holidays? Share on Social Media!
