Here's to a productive December.

Written By Mindy Muller

Our next door neighbor growing up used to write a funny, authentic family letter to accompany their Christmas cards. It gave friends and family a real look into the turmoil, twists, turns and challenges that the year brought but in a humorous way. It was deliberately intended to be in stark contrast to the 'perfect family', braggy letters that were so popular back in the 70's, 80's and 90's. I miss Rick's letters.

In the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas, I'm reminded at how difficult this season is for so many people. Loneliness, hurt feelings, family friction, missing people, and disappointments weigh heavy for some. The list of hardships can be long. Sometimes life resembles a Lifetime movie more than a Hallmark movie. So how do we survive this season of merriment?

  • Feel the feels. Be real. Own it. Acknowledge it. Write about it. Denial isn't healthy. It's okay to not always be okay and acknowledging those realities of life can be therapeutic.

  • Share. Find those people who can bear the burden with you. Share your feelings, doubts, and disappointments with trusted friends and confidantes. We are not intended to travel life alone. Lean in to those around you for support.

  • Find the humor. My mom used to say every struggle could be a Seinfeld episode. Look for the funny. Find your laugh in the midst of the tears. Humor is healing.

  • Find the blessings. It's hard sometimes to see the good amidst the hard but there is always something to be grateful for. Think, ponder and consider what blessings have occurred in the midst of struggle.

  • Be sensitive to others. Perhaps this has been a winning year for you. Maybe joy, gratefulness and happiness are knocking at your door this year. Be aware that others may be struggling and be sensitive when sharing your blessings and happy happenings.

    Here's to a productive December. I wish you a month full of reflection and remembrance as you look forward to the upcoming hope and renewal a New Year brings. Have a wonderful holiday season, friends.

-Mindy Muller, CFRE, President/CEO of CDP

Mindy Muller

EDUCATE. SUPPORT. DEVELOP. CONNECT. CDP helps communities thrive. Through innovative and strategic partnerships with nonprofits, local government, educational institutions and community-based businesses, CDP works through community stakeholders to make communities places where everyone can thrive. Through our team of professionals we have helped thousands of organizations build their capacity to better serve their communities by providing innovative solutions to unique community development challenges.

Specialties include nonprofit capacity building; affordable housing solutions; community development strategies; and, social enterprise and entrepreneurship

https://communitydevelopmentprofessionals.com
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