The holiday season is upon us and consumer culture is out in full force – think Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Christmas Eve rush for last minute gifts. Whether it’s trying to score the hot new toy for your child or finding the perfect gift for your spouse, it can feel like our holidays (and even the rest of the year) are more about “stuff” and less about what’s truly important in life. Compared to 50+ years ago, Americans today have more cars, bigger homes, and eat out far more frequently. But are we happier because of it? Or is it a case of more money, more problems?
It’s said that if you take a look at someone’s checkbook, you will know what his or her priorities are. Is it true that where your money goes, so goes your priorities? What better time than the holidays and before the beginning of a new year to take a look at what’s really important in your life. Here are 5 ways to help:
- Determine what you value most about your life: Try choosing five things you value most as a starting part. By consciously making these choices, it’s a reminder of what things in your life you can’t – and won’t – do without. Consider it the backbone of your life.
- Assess the way you use your time: After determining the five areas you value most in life, take a look at how you spend your time and evaluate which things are absolutely necessary for these areas. Assess how much time you spend emailing, texting, and staring at a screen. How can you cut back?
- Cut the clutter in every area of your life: Do you really need everything you have or does it feel like too many possessions are wearing you down? This also goes for emotional clutter! Reevaluate what’s truly necessary in your life for where you are now.
- Spend more time with people that matter: Assess how much time you actually spend with family and close friends. Is it quality time where you’re truly interacting?
- Make time to be alone: Do you tend to put yourself at the end of your priority list? If the answer is ‘yes’, take some time to reconnect with a hobby or activity you’re passionate about. There is nothing selfish about spending time recharging alone – it could be the healthiest gift you can give to yourself.
By determining what’s most important in your life and breaking free from the clutter, you will not only see changes in your everyday life, but in your work life as well. An increase in prioritizing and productivity are just a few of the benefits you’ll enjoy! Please call Leah M. Joppy and Associates at 301-670-0051 or email us at leah@lmja.com to learn more about how we can help you start the new year happier.