What’s the BEST Christmas Present this Year?

Yes!

Well its You!

No don’t be ridiculous

Really?

Yes you are!

That’s the BEST Christmas Present this Year!

Yes there are 6 simple (and free!) things you can do to be the best present to yourself and others this Xmas:

1) Connect – yes Connect, with anyone, with everyone, in any small way.

Loneliness is shortening lives, just as any other long term condition.

We are social animals and so greet the barista and look them in the eye as you grab your coffee, have a chat with Maureen or Malcolm in Reception, give a friend a call you have not spoken to in ages.

2) Smile, 😊 -We have a natural in-built system to resonate with each other. When we see someone doing something, we internally “mirror” or “mimic” with them. If you smile, you make my smiling “micro muscles” go to work. I may feel better for no reason. This process is called resonance. Win-win!

3) Be authentic and vulnerable –

Research shows that being vulnerable, however scary that may sound, may be the greatest gift you give to yourself and others. Research shows that true connection and intimacy with others comes from a willingness to be vulnerable.

Although vulnerability takes courage, it is also most beautiful gift you can give to yourself and others.

3) Remember to Listen

A simple gift to give anyone is to be there with that person 100%.

Listen to someone attentively without interrupting, take in their perspective fully, allow them to express themselves, and just get yourself out of the way for awhile.

You will be amazed at what you learn and this may be the first time anyone has listened to them in such a profound and respectful way.

4) You know that I am a big believer in being grateful.

Research shows that 3 times more positive things happen to us than negative things every day yet it is so common for us to focus on the negative.

We have an in-built tendency to remember and dwell on negative things that happen and we get used to the positive things in our lives. As a consequence, we often make a mountain out of a molehill and forget to celebrate the multitude of gifts we are given every day.  Gratitude is a solution to those tendencies.

5) The next may be a bit more tricky- Be happy

Research shows that our well-being impacts those around us up to 3 degrees of separation away from us.

By taking good care of yourself, doing things you love, and being happy, you are making those around you happier, and the friends of friends of those around you happier too!

In your pursuit of happiness, don’t forget its biggest secret: being of service to others makes you happier! Win win again!

6) Lastly -Be self-compassionate

To truly be happy, drop your self-criticism and judgment.

Instead, chose self-compassion: treat yourself like you would a friend with gentleness and understanding.

What are you going to do to be the best “gift” this Xmas?

#YESYOUCAN

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#YouAreTheBestGift