Inching closer to Christmas ...

This year the energy in the world seems odd to me.  Everyone is on edge and crankier than usual.  Have you found that to be true in your neck of the woods?  It can be more difficult than usual to stay calm and centered. The words of wisdom I have for today are simple: stick to your budgets!  Don't over spend. If you are tempted to do so remember the force behind the desire is your emotions trying to 'drive the bus.'  You stay in charge.  Think beyond the momentary delight of making this forbidden purchase to the day you open your credit card bill in January.  Did you 'sober up?' I thought so!  It works for me every time.

Don't forget those other budgets: the one for your energy is important.  You can't do it all without taking the chance you'll wind up with a cold or in an exhausted heap on Christmas morning. And then you have your emotional budget: how much celebrating will you participate in?  How much time will you give your cantankerous Uncle Albert on Christmas Eve? There's always a balance to be struck between legitimate obligation to those we love and outright manipulation.  Don't give in to the latter.

Other than a lot of sugar and egg nog (joking!), how can you stay focused and centered this last week before the big day?  Remember to exercise even if that's only a brisk 15 minute walk.  Stay hydrated and that means water not more soda or several pots of coffee or tea. And take a meditation break.  It will calm your mind and give you a new perspective on Uncle Albert.  And guess what else is calming?  Are you ready?  Please tell me you're sitting down.  OK.  Getting organized is very relaxing if you have the right attitude.  After all you are exhibiting control over your environment and that's pretty powerful. 'Stuff' won't talk back to you.  It won't make you feel guilty (you're on your own with that one) or ask why you don't call more often.  It's just stuff. We imbue it with magical properties.  As your environment gets more orderly it will be easier to think clearly.  Your self-esteem will rise and you will feel in control.  I can't think of a better gift to give yourself this holiday season ... except maybe that yummy cashmere sweater you're waiting to go on sale.  I understand.