6.Try letting go and see what marvels happen! Let go of one small thing that’s really been getting to you. Ask yourself what is worst that can happen? Just for kicks, reflect back on a particularly stressful holiday situation last year. How bad was it really? Did worry consume you for nothing? I’m guessing that turnout wasn’t as bad as all images swimming in your head. And, there may have even been a hidden blessing after all. In scheme of things, our daily worries are trivial. Try to let them go… and go with flow!

7.Find opportunities throughout day to bond and make a human connection. Make a conscious and loving effort to be attentive and live in present moment. A sure fire quick way to work yourself up is to let your mind run a million miles an hour of things you could, should or would be doing. These random relentless thoughts will just make you anxious and nervous. Take time to look into peoples’ eyes; listen carefully to what they have to say and pass them a compliment about something you know is important to them. That goes for strangers too! You will enjoy your time together that much more… and so will they.

8.Change up scenery. Rather than going through your same daily routine, shake it up a bit! Close your eyes at night before you drift off and sleepily anticipate a self indulgent wild and crazy day. Roll out of bed on opposite side. Light a scented candle in bathroom and watch flame flicker in morning light. Crank up your favorite piece of inspiring music before you do anything else in morning. Walk backward through house. Try tea instead of coffee. Call an old friend you haven’t talked to in ages. Talk to strangers! Take scenic route home. Wave to stressed out folks who cut you off on freeway. What else can you think of that could change up your scenery and shake some smiles out of you?

9.Treat yourself as you would treat others. Write yourself a love note. Buy yourself fresh stems of flowers. Soak your feet. Valet park car. Have your groceries delivered. Send your undies to cleaners. Snuggle with a blankie. Take a long walk. Sleep in. Watch sunset. Sing yourself a love song. Do all things for yourself you wish others would do for you!

Enjoy most fabulous holiday season of all times!

The truly loving person smiles and understands when his spouse, his children, or his employees make a mistake.

Criticize important people in your life and you expose your ignorance about making and keeping positive and healthy relationships. Establish, instead, positive and healthy relationships by leading way, setting positive examples, listening closely to what they say and don't say, and showing your spouse, children, or employees your love for them.

Actions speak louder than words, they say. And your positive actions will show others that you truly care about them, not their mistakes.

When your positive message is frequent and consistent, it will motivate others to follow your lead.

Train yourself to see them not as people who make mistakes, but as totally whole images who are capable of so much more.

Remember: When you maximize your potential, everyone wins. When you don't, we all lose. © MMIV, Etienne A. Gibbs, MSW