All is calm, all is bright

I hope you’ve enjoyed this series on Thriving during the Holidays! It’s hard for me to believe that Christmas is actually next week. And then the week after that, we are in a new year and new decade! I wanted to wrap this series up with two thoughts: Finding Calm and Staying Bright. 
Finding Calm - in the midst of the parties, decoration, and giving, I hope that you take the time to reflect and have some quiet moments. Commit to being present and engaged with the people you’re around. Perhaps step away from social media for the holiday season or turn off your email notifications. Whatever works for you to help you pause, breathe, and simply be calm.
Staying Bright - this looks different for everyone and what I mean by staying bright is this: when you need a break take one. If being surrounded by family and friends fills your bucket and invigorates you, do it. That project that you’ve been putting off because it will take too much time (even if you know you’ll enjoy doing it!), do it. Actually playing and authentically engaging with your kids and spouse, prioritize it. Incorporating joyful movement into your daily practices - don’t wait until January 1 to start doing that. Do it now, December 19. Most of all, commit to being well and sharing your strengths with those around you. You’ll be so grateful that you did! 
I am incredibly grateful for what I get to do - this last year I have had the privilege to speak at conferences; work with incredible educators across the country; help people grow into the healthiest versions of themselves. It’s humbling, exciting, hard yet rewarding work. Let’s go into 2020 committed to continuing that pursuit of “All is calm, all is bright”!
Be well, 
JoEllen