We’ve entered the holiday season — a time filled with both connection and complexity. I’m reflecting on how I want to experience this season personally, and how to embody that same authenticity and intention with my family, friends, clients, colleagues, and communities.

For some of us, the holidays end up feeling less than joyful because of the pressure to bake, shop, decorate, attend every party, and eat and drink more than our systems actually want. We may find ourselves buying gifts purely out of tradition — that’s just the way it’s always been and I don’t want to let people down — rather than out of generosity or joy.

What if this year, we tried a few things just a little differently?

What if instead of buying our kids everything they want, we included them in a new ritual of giving back? Or we talked about gift-giving and what it means to your family. What if instead of staying late and having another glass of wine, we headed home and took a moment to actually observe the holiday inside our own space — noticing the sounds, the smells, and the lights we thoughtfully put up so we could enjoy them?

What if we took inventory of what truly matters and what consistently leaves us depleted — and instead of saying “that’s just how it is,” we got curious? Is there a part of us performing? Competing? Trying to feel lovable? Accepted? Trying to avoid disappointing others?

Tracking is such an important part of staying steady and connected to ourselves during the holiday season. Tracking how certain foods make us feel later. Tracking whether a purchase sparks joy or obligation. Tracking what leaves us nourished versus drained.

There is so much aliveness available in the small pauses — moments where our nervous system gets to reset and remember what we need.

May you track the small moments this holiday season that feel authentically you. When you’re connected to yourself, others feel the difference. Authenticity is the gift.

With care,

Laurie