Merry Christmas

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This year at Christmas, it’s important to stop and reflect on the year that has past. With such a tumultuous year across the world in which we have seen so many dynamic geo-political risks playing out which have impacted so many peoples lives it can often be an overwhelming feeling that things will not improve.
 
It’s often this time of the year that sparks quite polarised feelings about life that we’re either really happy with, or that worry us intensely. Add to the global security issues there is also the constant bombardment of media, movies and ads showing happy families at Christmas all getting along well, laughing and enjoying their time together can either bring a sense of joy and happiness, or dread and resentment.
 
It’s tough that this time of the year can be the hardest for many people. However, if this is the case, then what are you going to do about it? It’s all well and good to feel sorry for ourselves, but rather than focus on what’s wrong in the world, this is a great opportunity and time to review what’s really important in life and make some positive changes to build on that. 
 
I think it’s more important than every to think broadly and look at what will really make a difference in your life and the lives of those around you.
 
One place to start is to give back to the community with no expectations. The gift we can give someone through actions of kindness, compassion and generosity can make a huge difference in their lives and what better time to start than now. Join a service club. If you’re under 60, you will dramatically lower the average age of those involved.
 
‘I have no time’ I hear you sigh. Why is that? What’s the root cause of your lack of time? What can you do to make your time more efficient and effective? For starters, start saying no to lots of things which don’t matter. Our lives can become so consumed by pointless noise. If we filter out that noise and stop doing things which really aren’t that important, then the amount of time we have to do important things which are fulfilling dramatically increases. 
 
What’s important to you? How can you focus on that over the next week, month and year? How can you help others? Most importantly, how can you live a wonderful, meaningful and fulfilling life? At Christmas, forget the noise of marketing, of fads and what the world tells you you should be doing for the new year. Instead spend some time focussing on what’s really important in your life and how you can focus on that to ensure every year, despite its challenges, will be a wonderful and fulfilling one for you and your family. Merry Christmas.