Celebrating You: A Season of Self-Love and Kindness
As we approach the end of the year, the world seems to move at an overwhelming pace. The news cycle is relentless, the demands of work are at an all-time high, and the holidays, while a source of joy for many, can bring immense pressure and even sorrow for others. This season, I want to encourage everyone to pause for a moment and focus on one very important thing: you.
For many of us in corporate America, especially those in technology and finance roles, the holidays are less about rest and more about deadlines. It’s the end-of-year crunch, and ridiculous hours become the norm. The to-do lists seem endless, and there’s a constant push to wrap up projects before the calendar flips. For others, the holidays may feel heavy—a poignant reminder of loved ones lost, or a season where joy feels out of reach. And for some, it’s simply a time when expectations and realities don’t align, leaving a sense of emptiness.
This blog is not here to gloss over these realities but to remind you that in the midst of it all, you matter. The holidays can—and should—be a time to celebrate not just traditions or togetherness, but yourself. It’s okay to pause, to step back, and to disengage from the noise. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s necessary.
Be a Little Selfless—For Yourself
The phrase “be selfless” often brings to mind acts of giving to others, and while this is beautiful and important, let’s not forget the power of being selfless for ourselves. Give yourself permission to take care of your needs. This doesn’t mean ignoring the needs of others but finding balance so that you’re not left running on empty.
Get some sleep. Really, real sleep. Not the kind where you fall into bed with your mind racing about tomorrow’s tasks, but the deep, restorative sleep that only comes when you give yourself the grace to rest.
Eat your favorite foods. Not what you should eat, but what makes you smile. Whether it’s the comfort of homemade mac and cheese or a decadent holiday treat, let food be a source of joy.
Go on a date with yourself. Take yourself out, no expectations or compromises. Go see a movie where you’re the only adult in the room—or don’t go anywhere at all. Light a candle, pour your favorite drink, and settle in with a book or a show you’ve been meaning to watch.
Disengage from social media. Instagram, Facebook, TikTok—these platforms can make it feel like everyone else is living a picture-perfect life, which can be especially hard when you’re not feeling your best. Give yourself the gift of disconnection. Instead of scrolling, engage with the present moment.
A Reminder for Those Who Struggle
If you’re struggling this holiday season, know this: You are not alone. It’s okay to feel what you’re feeling. It’s okay to not be okay. And it’s more than okay to seek help, whether that’s leaning on a friend, reaching out to a professional, or simply taking time to breathe and process. Life is not always easy, and the holidays can amplify the hard parts. But they can also be a time to find light in unexpected places—like in the glow of a candle, the taste of a warm cookie, or the sound of a favorite song.
This Season, Choose You
Whether you’re hauling through year-end deadlines, missing a loved one, or simply feeling out of step with the season’s festivities, I encourage you to choose you. Celebrate yourself in the way that feels most authentic. It doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s holiday. It doesn’t have to meet anyone else’s expectations. It just has to bring you some semblance of peace, joy, or rest.
Here’s to a holiday season where self-love and kindness take center stage. You deserve it.
