December 2023 Intentions
This essay initially appeared in the Monday morning newsletter on 12/4/23.
I love December. I love the anticipation build up to the holidays and the way the season can transform ordinary moments into something special. A Sunday afternoon reading on the couch is better with the Christmas tree on and coffee in a festive mug. A routine work commute involves passing beautiful light displays. Regular errands are accompanied by the backdrop of festive music.
But December is also a month that can easily feel overwhelming. Especially now, I’m thankful for my ritual of monthly planning sessions, where I take a moment to reflect on the month ahead, what I have coming up, and how I’d like to spend my time. It’s almost been a full year of writing these monthly intentions, and I’ve really enjoyed the exercise!
If you are looking for a Monday morning activity, giving this a try. Refill your favorite holiday mug and ask yourself the following.
What do I love about the month of December?
- The obvious… Christmas and the festivity of the holiday season!
- I love being in Chicago during the holidays. Christmastime in the city is magical.
- I also love being home for the holidays, especially the week between Christmas and New Year’s where things get quiet, and I get reflective about the year ahead.
What’s unique about this December?
- I’ll be in Chicago for the first half of December and then home in Florida for the last two weeks.
- Still celebrating and so excited about Matt’s and my big news.
December 2023 Intentions
- Re-listen to Calm Christmas and Happy New Year. I listened to this book last year and loved it. It has a great message of defining what is most special to you about the holidays and helps you reflect on going about the season in a calm, but meaningful, way. Highly recommend listening to the book vs. reading it as the author has such a calm voice (and English accent!).
- Keep a list of a festive activity/day. I’ve done this for a few years now to get ahead of feeling like the holiday season has zoomed by without enough time to enjoy my favorite activities. Doing one festive thing a day – and keeping a list of them all – helps me stretch this wonderful time a bit. Some of the festive activities are big ones, like going to see the big tree downtown or a holiday dinner with friends, but most of them are small, everyday things like watching a Christmas movie or going on a walk to look at holiday decorations.
- Reflect on 2023, look forward to 2024. There is a lot to celebrate from this year and some things I want to adjust for next year. I love setting intentions for the new year and need to start thinking about Jan 1 because it is on a MONDAY this year!
What are you looking forward to this month? Wishing you a very happy December!