Journal Prompts - Creating Vision For The Holidays
The holidays can be a beautiful time for celebration, but they can also feel overwhelming and there can be lots of moving parts or even some unmet expectations.
It's important to clarify what we want our holiday season to look like and take some time to create a vision so we can really be present!
During my college years, my mentor would ask me and some friends each fall to share our visions for the holidays at home. This conversation shifted my perspective on the holidays. I hadn't realized that I could contribute to the holiday experience, and I often felt out of sync during this time due to all the busyness and being away from my regular routine and habits. My mentor encouraged us to think about the habits we wanted to maintain while at home to stay mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy.
For me, those habits consistently include:
- Taking walks outside when I can - and inviting others to join in!
- Setting aside time in the morning for prayer—even if it means staying in my room at my in-laws' house for a few minutes after waking up. I remind myself that it's okay if that seems "rude" or “different” because I know I need to get my mind and heart right.
- Staying mindful of my consumption—continuing to eat protein and balanced meals instead of just snacks and treats - eating meals even if others aren’t
-Stretching
-Making time for solitude
-Not overstaying on family trips and knowing my limits
- Cooking for others
What are the nonnegotiable habits you want to keep during the holidays - even if you are at your in-laws, friends' houses, or on vacation?
I have created a PDF to go through that you can print and use as journal prompts to get your mind going and start creating a vision for this year. I have added to my mentor’s questions through the years and have focused on my giftings and how I can use the gifts I have been given to care for others during the holidays and not just be a consumer during the holidays. It is nice to feel like I can play a role in the holidays and serve.
I hope these journal prompts below are helpful for you too!
We can stay present and grateful during this special time by creating a vision for our holiday season!
