Merry & Mindful

By. Meredith Biesinger

The holiday season is here! It’s easy to get wrapped up in all of the festivities and endless to-do lists that accompany the holidays. 

A personal challenge that I am extending to myself this year is to be merry and mindful by finding joy in small and simple things while being aware of others’ needs and my own this holiday season.

The holidays can bring joy and excitement for some while also causing stress and sadness for others. Look around your school, classroom, town, local stores, or pretty much everywhere this time of year, and you’ll be surprised at the diversity of emotions people experience in November and December. You might even be experiencing them yourself!

Here are a few ways to be both merry and mindful this season, and always!

1. Stay Organized
Make your lists, check them twice, and plan your holiday shopping or meal preparations. January will be here before you know it, so be sure to have your curriculum and resources ready to go for the new year! Preparing in advance will save you both time and stress later, allowing you to enjoy the holiday season more!

2. Serve
Serving others is a great way to give back this season and invite merriment into your life. Look for needs within your school or community, and don’t forget that a smile and a listening ear often go a long way!

3. Budget
Set a budget for gift giving and stick to it. No one should ever go into debt for purchasing gifts for loved ones. Check out all of the fabulous deals that Educator Marketplace has for all of your gift-giving needs. A few clicks and free direct shipping will save you both time and money!

4. Time 
Time is the most precious gift of all. Be sure not to overload your calendar, and gift yourself some time to enjoy something you genuinely love to do. 

5. Gratitude 
During the chaos of that is often the holiday season, be sure to sit for a few minutes in peace and quiet and reflect on all that you have to be grateful for. Gratitude is a great mindfulness activity for any time of the year!

Being mindful is nothing more than taking a pause. So, in other words, remember to find joy in the little things and take a pause! Your students, family and friends, and most importantly, yourself, will be glad you did!