November 18, 2020
Reflection: Keep it simple.
Today I am grateful for... excuses to be joyful.
Challenge: What can I do to simplify, and maintain joy at the same time?
Confession: I put my Christmas decorations up on November 1 this year. Not everything went up—I focused on the things that brought me more joy than the effort it would take to drag it out and put it up. We are typically a “no décor until after Thanksgiving” type of family....not by choice, but due to the fact that in a ‘normal’, non-pandemic-fueled year, we host Thanksgiving for our families. But this year, plans are different, sentiment is different, and the all-around need for joy is apparent. So I said fck it. And made the executive decision to drag up #AllTheThings and proudly erect my 9-foot Christmas tree in our living room. And I’m so glad I did.
Christmas has always been one of my favorite times of the year. I’d like to consider myself a positive person, and there’s something about the Christmas season that just makes it feel like people are generally happier. The philanthropic generosity, the cheery lights and embellishments...hell, even politicians can find common ground when it comes to the holidays...and people sing! When did people stop singing?? When you zoom out, it’s almost like the holidays take us a step-back in time, and help us appreciate and celebrate the simplicity of times that once were.
Over the years, we as humans have somehow managed to screw this up too, muddying the celebrations with a focus on gifts, and junk. I’ll admit, over the years, I’ve acquired more Christmas decor than I truly need...Is a 9-foot tree really necessary?...Ok no, but for the record, I got it for free, and it bring me so much joy! I will not apologize for something that brings me great joy, but I do think it underscores the importance of finding the right balance between unnecessary minimalistic discomfort and over-the-top consumerism. My motto (which has become increasingly more relevant as I’ve settled into motherhood) is simplicity. As one of my favorite characters from The Office, Dwight Schrute, would say, “K.I.S.S.--Keep it simple stupid!”.
Interestingly enough, be-it Christmas décor or meal prep or accepting that the floors are “good enough” after a quick-mid-week sweep, the theme of simplicity applies in all aspects of my life. Motherhood has taught me so much about this on my journey of overcoming perfectionism. Particularly that you have to pick-and-choose your battles, and, more importantly, where you spend your energy. What is most important to me? Where is ‘good enough’, good enough? What doesn’t warrant my time or energy anymore? These questions, seemingly so simple (no pun intended), have a profound impact on our day-to-day lives, and overall wellbeing.
So as I relish in these days complete with twinkle lights and glittery ornaments, I choose to appreciate the joy they bring a bit more intentionally, I feel peace (not guilt) for all-the-things that didn’t get put out, and I express gratitude for the holiday season and a reason to be joyful. The holiday season might look a bit different this year, but I’m choosing to focus on the joyful things, and all I have to be grateful for.
XO
SS
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