HOLIDAY BALANCE
Family is most important. Not only during this holiday season, but throughout the year. It’s now, during the holidays that we tend to feel the stress trying to balance between our nuclear, work and Auxiliary families.
Over the years most of you have heard me speak about the importance of family.
Family is our support system, it what keeps us grounded and for the most of the year we tend to find a balance between family, work and the Auxiliary. It’s now, during the holidays, that we begin to feel tugged in each direction.
With this in mind, that I offer some suggestions to maintain a balance and hopefully reduce that stress.
Don’t be afraid to say “No.” While we may not want to, sometimes we have to, as we cannot be two places at the same time.
Make a list of all the things you need to do and the date they must be done by, such a decorating, gift shopping, etc. The earlier you cross these items off your list the more time you’ll have for enjoyable activities.
Family time. Dedicate time to your nuclear family. Speak to everyone and select a day, time and activity that you all appreciate. Whether it’s snacking on popcorn while watching your favorite holiday movie or traveling to the City to see the many holiday attractions. As long as it’s something done together, it will be memorable.
Planning will prove most helpful as the invitations, tasks, work and Auxiliary responsibilities begin to accumulate.
Delegate. Don’t be afraid to assign tasks and share the responsibilities. It will help others have ownership in the achieved goals. Just be sure to follow up.
Me time. Be sure to set some time aside for yourself. You may want to use this time to reflect or simply be thankful for each or your blessings.
Put your smartphone down. That email or text message can wait and the entire world doesn’t need to know your every move on social media.
While I wish each of you and your loved ones healthy, safe and happy holidays, I also would like to express my genuine gratitude for all that you are and all that you give throughout the year.
Warmest regards, and Semper Paratus
Gus Formato
Commodore Gus Formato
District Commodore,
First District Southern Region
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