The 100 Years Club Installment #103: The 5 Things to Give Yourself This Holiday Season

In my last post, I discussed self-gifting as a new holiday tradition (especially if you are alone during the season).

Here are five ways to be your own Santa this month (no reindeer or elves involved).

1. The obvious grown-up toys: Gadgets, fashion, and self-care splurges (like a spa day or vacation) can be fun end-of-year treats. But don’t overdo it if you’re concerned about starting 2025 in deep debt.
2. Reflection: Every year, I set aside some time to look at the past 12 months and take a mental inventory of the highlights, what I learned from my mistakes, and which types of clients and projects brought me the most work joy. I also create a geeky spreadsheet or two so I can see how my social media and podcast are working and what I need to fine-tune. That leads to my next “gift.”
3. A plan: We’re not talking about a 30-slide presentation. I just create a simple list of things I will focus on (work and play) and calendarize it. Not only does that give you a roadmap to success (however you define that), but it keeps you zoomed in on those activities and people that really matter. Time is finite. We should always be prepared for unexpected and often distracting things to happen, but some level of structure usually gives us peace. Find a coach or other advisor if you need help staying on plan.
4. De-cluttering: When I have downtime over the holidays, I sort my stuff for tax season and sometimes even organize my drawers or closets, giving away stuff that no longer fits into my life. The clutter in your home or office often impacts the mess in your head. Another way to “empty the mental garbage bin” is to simply unplug from social media for a while. Even an hour or two of digital detox (especially now that our feeds are filled with gift ideas and sales) can be liberating and calming.
5. Micro-joys: If you feel Grinch-y this holiday season, create small moments that bring you happiness. Pick one or two experiences that made/make you happy. For example, I love to knit and bake (and making cookies for gifts for others is a double-win. I have fun, and they get sweets). I enjoy trying new restaurants with a close friend. And, of course, feeling my fingers on the keys of a laptop and hitting “Publish” always makes me smile.

And on that note…I’m off to hit that key! Click on the picture below for more wit and wisdom this holiday season and all year round!