The Science Behind Gratitude

Gratitude is more than just a good feeling—it’s been scientifically proven to have a wide range of benefits for both mental and physical health. Research shows that practicing gratitude can increase dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, the chemicals responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being.

Studies have shown that people who keep gratitude journals experience lower levels of stress, improved sleep, and enhanced relationships. Gratitude helps counteract negative emotions such as envy and resentment by shifting our focus to what’s working well in our lives.

If you’re looking to integrate these practices into your routine, life coaching services can provide the support and accountability you need.

Gratitude and Mental Health: A Powerful Ally

In a world where mental health challenges like anxiety and depression are more common than ever, gratitude can serve as a powerful tool for healing. When we intentionally focus on the positives in our lives—whether it’s a supportive friend, a good cup of coffee, or simply the ability to walk outside—we interrupt the cycle of negativity that can otherwise dominate our thoughts.

Gratitude also fosters mindfulness, helping us stay in the present moment instead of dwelling on past mistakes or future worries. When we practice gratitude, we’re less likely to ruminate on negative experiences and more likely to appreciate the present as it is.

How Gratitude Strengthens Relationships

Gratitude isn’t just beneficial for our own well-being—it also has a transformative effect on our relationships. Expressing genuine appreciation to those around us strengthens bonds, fosters trust, and deepens connections. When we acknowledge others’ efforts or express thanks for their presence in our lives, it cultivates a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

Imagine the impact of regularly telling your friends, family, or colleagues how much you appreciate them. Small acts of gratitude—like a handwritten note or a heartfelt “thank you”—can have a ripple effect, spreading positivity throughout your social circles.

For couples, developing a shared gratitude practice can be explored further through couples counselling in Vancouver.

Gratitude in Challenging Times

Even in the face of adversity, practicing gratitude can gives us a true sense of perspective. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by challenges, but gratitude allows us to step back and recognize that even difficult situations often carry valuable lessons or silver linings.

For example, a difficult period in your life could teach you resilience, patience, or the importance of self-care. When you focus on what you’ve learned and the strength you’ve gained through hardship, it can empower you to face future challenges with a healthier, more optimistic mindset.

Ways to Cultivate Gratitude

So, how can we make gratitude a consistent part of our lives? Here are a few simple practices that can help you start cultivating this powerful habit:

1. Start a Gratitude Journal: Each day, write down three things you’re grateful for. These don’t have to be big events—small moments count:  like a good conversation; a sunny day. The key is consistency.
2. Smile and Say, ‘Thank You’ More Often: Whether it’s to your partner, coworker, or a stranger who holds the door open, look at them, smile and express your gratitude verbally. It not only boosts your mood but also brightens someone else’s day.
3. Reflect on Your Day: Before bed, take a moment to think about the positive experiences you had throughout the day. This reflection can help shift your mindset from stress to appreciation.
4. Practice Gratitude Meditation: Set aside a few minutes to sit quietly, close your eyes, regulate your breathing with deeper breaths and visualize the things that you are thankful for. You will begin to feel the sense of gratitude filling your heart.
5. Share Gratitude with Others: Take it a step further by writing a letter or making a phone call to someone who has made a difference in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate them.

Conclusion: Gratitude as a Lifestyle

The power of gratitude isn’t just about feeling good in the moment—it’s about cultivating a mindset that transforms how you see the world and interact with it. When you practice gratitude regularly, you invite more joy, peace, and connection into your life. By shifting your focus to what you have rather than what you lack, you open yourself to greater happiness and fulfillment.

So, take a moment today to pause and reflect. What are you grateful for? The power of gratitude is always available to you—it’s a choice, a mindset, and a practice that can help you live a more balanced, joyful, and connected life.

For more tools and support in developing a gratitude-focused life, explore Claire Sutton’s self-help resources or career coaching in Vancouver to align your work and life with your values.

The post The Power of Gratitude: It can Transform your Life appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.

But how did we get here, and what can we do to combat this pressing issue?

What Is Loneliness?

Loneliness is often misunderstood as simply being alone. However, it’s not about solitude—it’s about a feeling of disconnection and isolation. A person can be surrounded by people and still feel profoundly lonely. It’s the emotional and psychological state that arises when we perceive a gap between the relationships we want and the ones we have.

In the age of social media, where we have virtual connections with hundreds or even thousands of people, it can be easy to mistake digital interactions for genuine social connection. But research has shown that these online relationships often leave us feeling more isolated, disconnected, and less satisfied with our lives.

If you’re struggling with this disconnection, counselling services in Vancouver can help you rebuild meaningful emotional connections.

The Scope of the Problem

Loneliness is a pervasive issue that crosses age, race, and socioeconomic boundaries. According to studies, nearly one in three adults report feeling lonely, with the number climbing for older adults. In the United States alone, about 43% of adults aged 60 and older report feeling lonely, and many young people aren’t immune either. The rise of loneliness among millennials, often linked to the pressures of social media, career-building, and financial stress, has raised alarm.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this problem. With lockdowns, social distancing measures, and remote work becoming the norm, people found themselves physically isolated, and for many, the emotional toll was severe. The loneliness that many felt during the pandemic continues to affect them today, and many people are still struggling to rebuild their social connections.

If you’re struggling to regain social balance post-pandemic, life coaching in Vancouver can help you reframe your direction.

The Causes of Loneliness

There are several factors contributing to the epidemic of loneliness, including:

1. Technology Overload: While technology allows us to stay connected virtually, it often replaces face-to-face interactions with shallow, screen-based communication. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can create a false sense of connection, leading to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, or disconnection as we compare ourselves to others online.
2. Social Media and Comparison: Social media has made it easier to connect but harder to form meaningful relationships. The constant cycle of comparing ourselves to curated, filtered versions of other people’s lives can foster feelings of inadequacy and isolation. These comparisons often lead to self-criticism and alienation.
3. Work and Lifestyle Pressures: Today’s fast-paced work environment, coupled with the hustle culture, leaves many people exhausted and with little time or energy for socializing. The demand for longer hours, career advancement, and financial success can also lead to the erosion of personal relationships.

   If work-life balance is a challenge, consider career coaching for a new perspective.

4. Aging Population: Older adults, particularly those who have lost spouses, family members, or friends, often face loneliness due to physical limitations or lack of social opportunities. They may also feel invisible in society, further contributing to their isolation. Mid-life coaching can support this transition.
5. Stigma Around Loneliness: Many people are reluctant to admit they are lonely, due to the stigma attached to it. This creates a cycle where individuals feel unable to reach out for help or even express their feelings to loved ones, worsening the situation.

The Impact of Loneliness on Health

The consequences of loneliness go far beyond emotional distress—it can be deadly. Research has linked loneliness to a variety of physical and mental health problems, including:

• Mental Health Decline: Loneliness can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. It can exacerbate existing mental health conditions, making it harder for individuals to cope with daily challenges.
  

  If this resonates with you, coaching services in Vancouver or self-help resources may be a lifeline.

• Cognitive Decline: Studies have found that people who experience chronic loneliness are more likely to experience cognitive decline.
• Weakened Immune System: Chronic loneliness can negatively impact the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to illness. It also increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
• Early Mortality: In extreme cases, loneliness has been shown to increase the risk of early death. 

Combatting Loneliness: What Can Be Done?

While loneliness can be overwhelming, it’s not a condition that people must face alone. Here are some ways we can combat loneliness on both an individual and societal level:

1. Fostering Meaningful Connections: Focus on building deep, meaningful relationships rather than maintaining shallow connections. Try engaging in activities that allow you to form real bonds, such as joining a local club, volunteering, or attending support groups.
   

   Couples counselling can help restore emotional intimacy for partners.

2. Quality Over Quantity in Social Media: If social media is a significant part of your life, make an effort to use it more intentionally. Follow people who uplift and inspire you, and engage in conversations that foster real connections rather than simply scrolling through endless posts.
3. Reach Out for Help: If you’re feeling lonely, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a mental health professional, talking about your feelings can make a huge difference.
4. Promote Community Engagement: Society can also play a role in combating loneliness. Cities and communities can create spaces for people to connect, whether it’s through local events, clubs, or public initiatives designed to bring people together. 

   For work-based isolation, workplace services and support for troubled employees may offer guidance.

5. Physical Activity and Wellness: Exercise, even a short daily walk, can help combat loneliness by boosting mood, increasing energy levels, and promoting social interactions. Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy can also act as a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation.

Conclusion

The epidemic of loneliness is a silent crisis, but it can be addressed. By building deeper relationships, acknowledging the impact of modern pressures, and reaching out for support, we can foster human connection again. Whether through one-on-one coaching or counselling, community engagement, or personal wellness, there are steps each of us can take to overcome loneliness and lead more connected, fulfilling lives.

The post Yes, You Can Combat Loneliness appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.

Let’s explore how you can approach retirement planning with a focus on your overall well-being. Yes, money is important, but you also must set yourself up for a mentally healthy retirement.

1. The Mental Health Impact of Retirement

For many, work provides more than just a paycheck. It offers purpose, structure, social connection, and a sense of identity. When these aspects of life are stripped away, it can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. According to studies, the transition to retirement is often met with emotional challenges, such as:

• Loss of Identity: For years, your identity might have been closely tied to your career. Without that role, some retirees may struggle to redefine themselves. Who am I now?
• Loneliness: Work often provides daily social interaction. Once retired, individuals can experience loneliness, particularly if they don’t have a strong social network outside of work.
• Anxiety and Uncertainty: Even those with sufficient savings can face uncertainty about how they’ll spend their days and whether they’ll feel fulfilled after retiring.

Recognizing these emotional and mental health challenges can help retirees prepare a ‘whole life’ approach for this significant life phase. 

For personalized support, consider exploring counselling services.

2. Build a Routine that Supports Mental Well-Being

One of the first steps to a mentally healthy retirement is maintaining structure and purpose. While the days may seem endlessly free, they can also become overwhelming without a plan.

• Establish a Daily Routine: While you may no longer have a 9-to-5 job, creating a daily routine that includes activities you enjoy—whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or even volunteering—can help create structure.
• Find Purpose: Many retirees struggle with a lack of purpose once they stop working. To prevent feelings of aimlessness, consider activities that give you a sense of meaning, like mentoring, working part-time, learning new skills, or volunteering. 

  Career coaching can help you explore new pathways.

3. Stay Socially Connected

Loneliness is a concern for many retirees. Without regular interaction with coworkers or a work-based social network, isolation can set in. To combat this:

• Maintain Existing Relationships: Stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues through phone calls, video chats, or in-person meetups.
• Join Groups or Clubs: Consider joining groups or clubs that align with your interests. Social networks based around shared hobbies or causes (book clubs, hiking groups, etc.) can provide valuable connections.
• Volunteer: Volunteering not only keeps you socially engaged but can also give you a sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s at a local charity, hospital, or community center, volunteering can fill your time with meaningful activities.
  

  Volunteering can also be a valuable part of self-help initiatives.

4. Prioritize Physical Health for Mental Health

Physical activity and mental well-being go hand in hand. Regular exercise has been proven to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress while boosting overall happiness. As you enter retirement, prioritize staying active.

• Exercise Regularly: Aim for activities that you enjoy and that you can realistically do on a regular basis, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporating practices like mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can reduce stress and improve your mental outlook.

Physical health provides a solid foundation for emotional well-being, and it’s important to make it a central part of your retirement plan.

If you are considering broader lifestyle changes, life coaching services can guide you in building holistic wellness routines.

5. Prepare for the Emotional Transition

The mental and emotional shift from a busy work life to a slower-paced retirement can be jarring, and it’s important to plan for it.

• Start Transitioning Early: If you’re nearing retirement, start easing into it before you completely step away from the workforce. Consider transitioning to part-time work or take on freelance projects to gradually reduce your work hours and ease into a new routine.
• Seek Professional Help if Needed: It’s okay to seek therapy/counseling if you’re struggling with retirement. Many people do. A therapist can help you process any feelings of loss or anxiety and guide you through this major life change. 

  Explore coaching services in Vancouver for personalized strategies.

6. Set New Goals and Challenges

Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of your personal growth. In fact, it can be an opportunity to challenge yourself in new ways. Set goals for personal growth, like learning a new language, taking a course, or exploring new hobbies. These challenges can provide excitement and motivation, boosting your mental health.

To navigate mid-life transitions, consider mid-life coaching in Vancouver.

7. Create Financial Peace of Mind 

Although we’re focusing on mental health, financial health is undeniably a part of the equation. Worrying about running out of money or not having enough for your desired lifestyle can be a significant source of anxiety.

• Work with a Financial Planner: Having clarity about your finances can alleviate much of the stress associated with retirement.
• Simplify Your Finances: Keep your financial life simple by tracking expenses, paying off debts, and avoiding unnecessary stressors related to money.

Professional support like workplace services can provide practical financial advice and transition coaching.

8. Embrace a Positive Mindset about Aging

Finally, one of the most powerful things you can do for your mental health as you retire is to cultivate a positive attitude toward aging. Retirement represents a new chapter, full of opportunities to explore passions, deepen relationships, and take care of your mental and physical health.

While aging comes with challenges, it can also be a time of great freedom, joy, and personal fulfillment. By embracing this shift with an open mind and a focus on growth, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the emotional complexities of retirement.

If conflicts arise during this adjustment period, conflict resolution services are available to help.

Conclusion: Plan for Your Mind, Not Just Your Wallet

Retirement is a big step, but it’s not just about finances—it’s about your whole-life: mental, emotional, physical, relational and spiritual well-being. Taking time to plan fully will help you enjoy the next chapter of your life with confidence and joy. The key is to approach retirement holistically so that your retirement is not just about having enough money, but also about having a fulfilling and enriching life.

For comprehensive support on this journey, explore Claire Sutton’s counselling and coaching services to help you achieve a balanced and joyful retirement.

The post A Whole-Life Approach Toward Retirement appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.

‘Seeking to understand’ starts with two crucial elements: active listening and emotional regulation. Let’s explore both.

The Power of Listening: Beyond Hearing

At its core, listening is much more than just hearing words. While hearing is a passive physical act, listening requires active engagement. Active listening means paying attention to the speaker, understanding their message, and responding thoughtfully. In the context of the “Seek First to Understand” principle, listening is the gateway to truly grasping the emotions, thoughts, and intentions behind another person’s words.

The challenge, however, lies in the distractions that often accompany conversations. We live in a time of constant information overload, where our attention spans are shorter than ever. When we engage in conversations, our minds tend to wander, often focusing on how we will respond rather than fully understanding what the other person is saying.

Active listening requires us to:

• Be Fully Present: Put away distractions—phones, laptops, or the television. Focus solely on the speaker.
• Reflect: After hearing the other person, reflect on what was said. Summarize their message in your own words to confirm understanding.
• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Show interest in their perspective by asking questions that invite more depth, such as “Can you tell me more about that?” or “What do you think led to that?”

Mastering the art of listening not only demonstrates respect for others’ viewpoints but also deepens your insight into their feelings and motivations. If you’re seeking to strengthen your communication in relationships, couples counselling in Vancouver can offer expert guidance.

Emotional Regulation: Staying Calm Amidst the Storm

Listening with an open heart requires more than just mental effort—it demands emotional discipline. Our natural inclination is often to react, especially when we feel triggered or when someone’s viewpoint challenges our own. That’s where emotional regulation comes in.

Emotional regulation refers to the ability to manage and control one’s emotional responses, particularly in stressful or challenging situations. When we regulate our emotions, we remain calm, present, and more receptive to others’ perspectives. Without emotional regulation, we risk letting our own feelings cloud our ability to truly understand someone else.

Here are a few strategies to regulate emotions during challenging conversations:

1. Pause Before Reacting: When emotions rise, take a moment to breathe deeply before responding. This brief pause allows you to regain composure and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
2. Practice Empathy: Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Ask yourself: “What are they feeling right now? What led them to think or say this?” This helps to detach your personal emotions from the conversation and see things from a broader perspective.
3. Reframe Your Thinking: If you find yourself becoming defensive or upset, reframe the situation. Instead of viewing the conversation as a conflict, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Remind yourself that seeking understanding isn’t about agreeing with someone—it’s about respecting their viewpoint.
4. Recognize Emotional Triggers: Being aware of your emotional triggers allows you to stay grounded. If a certain topic or phrase makes you feel defensive, recognize it and choose to respond with calm rather than reacting impulsively.

If emotional regulation is a recurring challenge, life coaching in Vancouver can support your journey toward emotional mastery.

The Benefits of Seeking to Understand

1. Builds Trust and Connection: When you listen to others without judgment and regulate your emotions, you foster trust. People feel heard, valued, and understood. This creates stronger, more authentic relationships, whether in personal or professional settings.
2. Promotes Collaboration: Understanding others opens the door to collaboration. By first seeking to understand, you create an environment where ideas flow freely, and differences become opportunities for growth.
3. Enhances Emotional Intelligence: Regular practice of active listening and emotional regulation enhances emotional intelligence (EQ), a key factor in personal and professional success. With better EQ, you can navigate complex social situations with grace, empathy, and effectiveness. If you’re navigating transitions or leadership roles, leadership coaching can help refine these skills.
4. Reduces Conflict: Misunderstandings often lead to conflict. By prioritizing understanding, you minimize the chances of conflict escalating. People are more likely to stay calm and engage in productive conversations when they feel understood. For deeper support in managing conflict, consider conflict resolution services in Vancouver.

Conclusion: The Art of Listening and Emotional Mastery

“Seek first to understand” is not just a communication technique—it’s a mindset that, when practiced, leads to more harmonious interactions and deeper relationships. It requires an intentional focus on the other person’s message, the art of listening with empathy, and the emotional regulation necessary to keep an open heart and mind. In a world that often prioritizes speaking over listening, this simple principle has the power to transform how we relate to others, fostering understanding in place of division.

By mastering the art of listening and regulating your emotions, you not only elevate your relationships but also contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. So, the next time you find yourself in a conversation, take a deep breath, listen with intention, and seek to understand before seeking to be understood. You may be surprised by the doors it opens.

If you find yourself struggling to communicate effectively in your personal or professional life, coaching services in Vancouver or counselling support can provide personalized tools for growth.

The post Seek First to Understand: The Art of Listening and Regulating Emotions appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.

Why Are Boundaries Important?

Boundaries allow us to:

• Maintain Healthy Relationships: When we have clear boundaries, we communicate what we need and expect from others. This can reduce misunderstandings and conflicts and create mutual respect.
• Prevent Burnout: Without boundaries, we often take on too much, leaving us physically and emotionally drained. Boundaries help us manage our energy levels.

  For professional guidance on stress management, explore life coaching services.

• Enhance Self-Worth: Respecting your own boundaries affirms that you value your needs and well-being. It can increase self-esteem. It can reinforce the idea that you are worthy of respect.
• Create Space for Personal Growth: Boundaries help you allocate time for yourself, which is essential for personal reflection, creativity, and self-improvement.

  If you need structured support in personal development, career coaching and leadership coaching can be valuable resources.

What Types of Boundaries can be Set?

There are several areas where setting boundaries is important:

• Emotional Boundaries: Protecting your emotional well-being means being aware of how much emotional energy you are giving to others. Emotional boundaries help prevent taking on the emotional burdens of others or being manipulated by their feelings.
• Physical Boundaries: These refer to your physical space and how comfortable you are with touch, proximity, or personal space. It’s about ensuring that your body and personal environment are respected.
• Time Boundaries: Time is one of the most precious resources we have. Setting limits on how much time you give to others helps prioritize your own needs and prevents overcommitting yourself.
• Mental Boundaries: Mental boundaries protect your thoughts, opinions, and beliefs. It’s about knowing that it’s okay to disagree with others and to protect your mental space from unnecessary stress.

  If workplace conflicts are affecting your well-being, conflict resolution services can help navigate professional disputes.

How to Set Firm Personal Boundaries?

• Know Your Limits: The first step to setting firm boundaries is understanding what you need. Take time to reflect on what makes you feel stressed, drained, or disrespected. What are your limits emotionally, physically, and mentally? When you know your boundaries, you can communicate them more effectively.
• Be Clear and Direct: Avoid being vague when expressing your needs. Use “I” statements like, “I need time for myself this weekend” or “I am not comfortable with that request.” Clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and lets others know exactly what you are and aren’t willing to accept.
• Practice Saying No: Saying no is one of the most powerful tools for setting boundaries. It’s okay to decline invitations, requests, or tasks that don’t align with your priorities. Saying no does not make you selfish; it means you are prioritizing your well-being.
  If you struggle with assertiveness, coaching services can provide valuable strategies to build confidence.
• Be Consistent: Once you’ve set a boundary, stick to it. It may feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you’re not used to it, but consistency is key. If you waver or change your boundaries based on other people’s demands, it sends the message that your limits aren’t important.
• Handle Pushback Calmly: Setting boundaries can be met with resistance, especially if you’ve never enforced them before. Stay calm, firm, and polite when others push back. Remember, it’s not your job to make others comfortable with your boundaries — it’s your responsibility to protect them.
• Communicate with Compassion: While boundaries are non-negotiable, you can communicate them with kindness and respect. You don’t have to be harsh or aggressive. For example, “I understand you need help, – I am unable to assist you at the moment. I need time for my personal responsibilities.”If managing personal and professional boundaries is a challenge, workplace services can help address these concerns.
• Respect Others’ Boundaries: Boundaries are a two-way street. Just as you need to honor your own, it’s equally important to respect the boundaries of others. This creates a mutual understanding and promotes healthy, balanced relationships.

What are The Common Challenges in Setting Boundaries?

• Fear of Guilt: Many people struggle with guilt when setting boundaries, fearing they may upset or disappoint others. It’s important to remind yourself that taking care of yourself is not selfish — it’s necessary for your well-being. Self-care is self-love.
  

  Practicing self-care and seeking counselling can help reframe guilt and reinforce the importance of prioritizing your needs.

• Fear of Conflict: Setting boundaries may lead to conflict, especially with people who are used to you saying “yes” to everything. While conflict is uncomfortable, it can also be an opportunity for growth and clearer communication.
• Cultural and Societal Expectations: In some cultures, or environments, there may be pressure to put others first or avoid confrontation. Breaking away from these expectations may take time, but your personal growth and peace of mind are worth it.

  For additional guidance, explore self-help resources tailored to personal development.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Peace

Setting firm personal boundaries is one of the most important steps you can take toward living a healthy and fulfilling life. Boundaries are not about pushing others away; they are about creating a life where your needs are respected, and your well-being is prioritized. It’s an ongoing process that requires self-awareness, courage, and practice. By consistently setting boundaries and respecting your own limits, you empower yourself to lead a life that reflects your true values and desires.

If you’re struggling to set boundaries in your personal or professional life, consider seeking support through divorce counselling for relationship-related challenges or mid-life coaching for personal transitions. Remember, protecting your well-being starts with valuing yourself.

The post Protect Your Well-Being: Set Firm Personal Boundaries appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.

The good news is  you can take control and minimize your holiday stress with these 6 tips:

Set the Stage – consider your entire schedule over the next 3- 5 weeks. Use a ‘whole month’ calendar.  Fill in your work hours, shopping hours, ‘must attend’ events and self-care breaks.  Be realistic, do not go to everything. Prioritize ‘Is this important to me, my partner and/or family?’ Note: your children’s concerts are a ‘must attend’; Christmas family dinner is a ‘must attend’; driving an hour to visit Aunt Mary & Uncle Joe one week before Christmas may not be.  Call and say you will visit in January when life isn’t so hectic. Your aunt & uncle will appreciate the call and look forward to your relaxed visit in the New Year.

Pay Yourself First with the gift of time. Carve out at least 15 minutes a day just for you, a self-care break. Slow down and breathe: enjoy a coffee by yourself, listen to music, soak a little longer in the bath, meditate.  Figure it out, take 15 minutes to reset ‘you’ each day.

Reduce, Reduce, Reduce. Decide on a budget for holiday spending : gifts, food, decorations.  Stick to the budget.  Make a list, check it twice.  Plan your shopping – fit it into your schedule. Use cash. Did you know that we spend much more when using a credit card.

Do less rather than more. Plan to be more rather than do more. Remember we are ‘human beings’ not ‘human doings’.  Many people try to be superhuman during the holidays resulting in angry outbursts, hurt relationships, depressed moods.

Do random acts of kindness. They require no planning as they are activated ‘in the moment’. Hours after the first snow storm in Vancouver, I was walking to my office and passed an elderly woman who was walking ever so slowly down a hilly snowy sidewalk en route to the drugstore. I turned to her and said would you like to take my arm and walk down the hill together.   Her face lit up with the biggest smile, she grabbed my arm and in the 3 minutes that we were together, we chatted and laughed. Random acts of kindness give you an immediate boost of positive feelings.

Give the gift of time. As you look over your budget and shopping list, consider the gift of time.  Many years ago as a young mother, a wise person told me that Time is spelled L-O-V-E.  I have never forgotten that. Rather than looking through stores for the greatest gifts think about making a gift-certificate that says: “This entitles you to a toboggan (snowshoeing, skiing, skating) day with me” ; “This entitles you to one evening of babysitting” “This entitles you to an afternoon of baking with me”  “ This entitles you to a  Grande coffee and a good long chat with me”.

Take time to reflect and be grateful this holiday season. Reflect on the good that you have done, the changes that you would like to make and the people that you have in your life.

Photo courtesy: Ben Askins

The post 6 Tips to Minimize Your Happy Holiday Stress appeared first on Claire Sutton Counselling.