As the holiday season approaches, I am consistently reminding myself of my word of the year: balance. In fact, I chose this word last year and felt like I needed to repeat it because I still hadn’t found it!

When I chose this word, it was because I felt that I lacked it in my life. My days were filled with endless work tasks, pulling me in every direction but leaving little room for my passions and self-care. Specifically this year, I have made a deliberate attempt to create the life I want, not allow life to pass me by. I have been very intentional with my time, ensuring I can give energy and time to all of my passions – family, faith, photography, flower farm, holding empowerment workshops and my kindness movement. This is a journey I’m still learning to walk. Finding balance this holiday season might be extremely challenging but I am hoping to find a true sense of balance, making space for what matters most.

In fact, I felt so strongly about bringing balance into my life that I even had a bracelet and a sign made with the word balance. I keep these where I can see them daily, gentle reminders to embrace grace and to focus on the things that fill my heart. These reminders help me see balance as a journey, guiding me to make space for everything I love without the pressure to do it all perfectly.

The other bracelet I had made reminds me to “pause, pray, plan” to choose what I want in my life. My words, my actions, my choices. Life goes by so quickly that I felt like I needed more time to think.

Why Balance Matters This Time of Year

I don’t know about you, but during the holidays, it’s easy for me to get swept up in a whirlwind of gatherings, gift-giving, and expectations. We’re often so focused on making everything perfect for everyone else that we lose sight of our own need for peace and focus on the true meaning of Thanksgiving ad Christmas. By the time the New Year rolls around, it can feel like the season was a blur, leaving us drained instead of renewed. I want to finish off the holidays feeling refreshed. Is that a possibility? Maybe if I make me a priority! My Sparks of Kindness drive for people experiencing homelessness kicks off the new year and I need a ton of energy for that.

This year, my commitment to balance has become even more important as I enter the holiday season. Balance reminds me to prioritize joy, letting go of the pressure to do it all perfectly.

The Power of Gratitude in Finding Balance

Taking time for gratitude has been one of the most grounding practices in my journey toward balance, especially during the holiday season so far. By focusing on what we’re thankful for, we shift our mindset from all that needs to be done to all we’ve been blessed with. This simple act brings a sense of peace and joy that helps counterbalance the busyness of life. In our home, we’ve made this a daily practice with our “gratitude pumpkin.” Each time we pass by, we add something we’re grateful for, writing it right onto the pumpkin. It’s been a powerful reminder that there’s always something good to recognize, even in the most hectic days. Breathing, eating and walking…There have been times in my life that I couldn’t walk (back surgeries and knee surgeries), couldn’t eat (when hospitalized for GI issues) and times I couldn’t breathe (thanks to pneumonia and asthma). I need to remember to be grateful every day for these things I take for granted when I am fine.

Seeing the visual collection of gratitude growing on our kitchen counter inspires us to slow down, stay present, and appreciate the abundance in our lives. This small ritual brings us back to center and reminds us that balance begins with a grateful heart.

Being Intentional in my Life

What brings me joy? Who brings me joy? Where can I go to find joy? Who gives me energy? Who drains my energy? Which activities do I dread and which ones do I lose time doing because I love them so much? Are there any activities I can cross off my to-do list? Delegate or automate? Do them first thing in the morning to get them over with instead of dreading them all day?

I am putting into practice the lessons we teach in our empowerment workshops so I can continue to create the life I want. See more about our workshops here https://cedarhillstudios.com/empowerment-details

Tips for Creating Balance This Holiday Season

As I continue my journey, here are a few things that I hope will help me create balance. I hope they’ll inspire you, too.

1. Set Clear Intentions for the Season
   Reflect on what you want to experience this holiday season. Is it a time for rest, connection, or giving back? Set intentions that align with those priorities. For me, this includes dedicating time to my Sparks of Kindness movement, to bring more joy to those in need. Join in the fun at https://www.facebook.com/groups/sparksofkindness
2. Prioritize Your Time Wisely
   It’s easy to feel like we have to do it all, but balance means choosing what fills your heart. Decide which gatherings, traditions, or activities bring you the most joy, and give yourself permission to let go of the rest.
3. Make Self-Care a Priority
   Balance is about filling your own cup, too. Take time for rituals that bring you peace—whether it’s a quiet morning coffee, a walk in nature for a mid-day breath of fresh air, or a few minutes of prayer time. Remember that even small acts of self-care can make a big difference.
4. Stay Present in the Moment
   It’s tempting to rush through the season, but true balance comes when we’re fully present. Savor the little moments, like laughter with loved ones, the warmth of a fire, or the beauty of a winter day. These are the moments that bring true joy and if we stop to recognize and appreciate that joy, we will have more gratitude and peace.
5. Set Boundaries with Love
   Don’t be afraid to say “no” kindly. Balance means respecting your own limits and making room for the things that matter most to you. People who care about you will understand, and it allows you to be fully present for the things you say “yes” to.

Embracing an Imperfect Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, I’m embracing the beauty of an imperfect season, one that’s guided by balance and intention. I’m giving myself permission to let go of the pressure for perfection so that I can breath and be present. I want to enjoy the meaningful, simple joys that make the season special.

I hope this season brings you the same sense of balance, peace, and joy. May you find the time to slow down, be present, and fully enjoy the beauty of this season.