It seems like every holiday season, my stress level triples.
This season started out the same way. There are always too many things to carry in from my car. Zoey (my rescue pup) peed on the rug again. There’s a small leak in our roof from the rain.
There are major changes going on in my office. Employees coming. Employees going. Clients coming. Clients going. Traffic sucks. I can never be on time for anything.
A few days ago, I found out that my father-in-law had a massive heart attack and now is on life support. He’s not going to be here much longer.
I just cancelled my non-refundable trip I scheduled for our Christmas vacation to fly to Florida and be there for his funeral. Breathe, Barb.
I began to meditate. I then soon realized how grateful I am for the things I do have.
I live in a beautiful home in Bel Air. I make a good living doing my dream job. I serve on the best boards in the world in Santa Monica – Rotary, Chamber, Orchestra. I have a cool office downtown. I have this column.
I have my health. I have wonderful friends and neighbors. I am grateful for my beautiful family. I love my rescue pup Zoey. I am grateful for Naam Yoga. I am grateful for Fabian’s expert weight training and photography instruction.
I am grateful for the life I’ve created for myself, and others. So what if there’s too much to carry? Take a couple of trips to carry it all in. So what if Zoey peed on the rug again? I’ll clean it up. So there’s a leak in the roof. I’m getting fixed as we speak.
My business is always changing. I have fully embraced the most recent changes and look forward to all the newness and excitement ahead for BBPR, Inc. I realized everyone else is stuck in traffic too. I’ll just leave a little earlier.
I am flying to Florida to honor and celebrate the life of my much-loved father in law, and support my family. I can go on vacation any time.
This year (take it from my personal experience), slow down. Meditate. Be present.
Count your blessings. We all have so many.
Happy holidays!
Hot Flash Universe is the go-to source for women over 40 looking for insight into the hottest, most current trends, products, and issues. Topics are approached with candor, intellect, and a healthy dose of humor. We search for the best Santa Monica has to offer for women of any age to be sexy, smart, and savvy.
Barbara Bishop is President of Santa Monica-based BBPR, Inc. For comments or suggestions, email Barbara.bishop@bbprinc.com.
