1. 'Twas night before Christmas, when all through house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse. The stockings were hung by chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

Keep Intentionality and Focus in mind. Christmas adds another full-time job to our already busy schedules. Your Intent, no doubt, is to have a good Christmas while keeping all other balls in air and not ending up exhausted or with debt you don't want. Focus on Christmas and everything else in its turn, and get those stockings hung by chimney with care.

2. The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads. And Mama in her 'kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap.

You need reserves to keep your resilience and stamina up. Take good care of you , your loved ones and your workers -- lots of sleep, but also lots of snuggling. It's not emotionally intelligent to damage a relationship because of Christmas stress. Emotions will be on high, so soothing tones and "visions of sugar plums" -- optimistic thoughts -- will help. Your attitude makes it a happy Christmas.

3. When out on roof there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was matter. Away to window I flew like a flash, tore open shutter, and threw up sash.

"Springing," reacting to new things is normal, but don't forget to slow down your "wondering eyes." It's emotionally intelligent to take a second look, or to count to ten. Don't just react -- take a close look at what's going on, give it some thought, collect yourself, and then respond.

4. With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.

Use your EQ to read nonverbal signals of people so you can find out what their strengths are and “who” they are. Try StrengthsFinder profile on my website. If Santa's "lively and quick," he doesn't belong in Quality Control Dept. Let him, well, deliver gifts on Christmas!

5. And he whistled and shouted and called them by name: "Now Dasher! Now Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Donner and Blitzen!

I thought I’d share ten ways to make most of this wonderful season, not because I’m any sort of expert, but because I love it. I like to learn from someone who loves what they teach, don’t you?

1. It’s all about warm feelings.

You are creating memories for yourself and for those around you. Stay in moment and don't dwell on past occasions, because this one coming up will be “the best Christmas yet.” I have said that every year!

2. Bake, bustle and bedeck.

Yes, it takes work, but like labor (as in childbirth) it’s one of times when your work really pays off big time. The point is that it is different, so let it be different. Fill house with smell of ginger, chocolate and cinnamon. Go out in yard, cut holly and greens and drape them everywhere drapable. Put reindeer horns on dog, mistletoe in office break room, a big red bow on mailbox, and definitely a big wreath on front of your car. And while you’re at it, make a tiny scarf or tiny Santa cap for “Jack” on your antenna. Wear a Christmas tie, Santa earrings, a decorated sweater and jingle bells on your ankles (use dog collar). Bustle, do more, get in spirit. Yes, you’re busy. You’re busy doing wonderful and fun things, and your heart can be full of people you’re doing this for. Know what I’ve learned? You could be just as busy preparing for your mother’s funeral — same deal – food, houseguests, cleaning, travel, in-laws, worrying about budget, arrangements. Get it?

3. Spread good cheer.

Many people do have a hard time with holidays. If you don’t, let your light shine on corners of others’ darkness. When I hear someone say, “I can’t handle this,” or “I’m overwhelmed,” or “There’s too much to do and I’m tired. Aren’t you?” I bellow out good and loud -- NOT ME!

4. It’s only “commercialized” if you let it be.

Everything in life is “commercialized”. Or not. If you're worried that it is, take a break and see what you can do spending as little as possible. You'll learn some interesting things about yourself and others.

5. Christmas works on any budget.

Yes, it’s hard if you’re really facing a “hard-candy Christmas,” but it’s at those times that we’re often at our best. Stripped of our “lucre power,” we are left with “us” – imperial, proud and true. In truth, things you DO with people, and way you ARE with people are greatest gifts you can ever give, and they are increasingly rare.

6. The perfect gift?

Giving of yourself. It requires no money whatsoever. What’s demanding about going out and buying her a sapphire ring? On other hand, would you take time, effort, and empathy to create an occasion designed for her enjoyment, which for any man, woman or child would be a time of your unconditional, undivided, unadulterated attention?