The Secret Ingredient for Healthy Holidays

By Joan S. Peck, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

Most of us have a love-hate relationship with the holidays due to a variety of reasons—family, food, and surprises of all kinds. Holidays are bittersweet. For some, it’s a time to celebrate new beginnings and welcome little ones into the family. For others, it’s a time to remember those who are no longer here. Each year feels different because life moves according to its calendar of events, often creating a time of reflection.

The key ingredient to a healthy, happy holiday is gratitude—for both what has been and what is today—while focusing on the best in each moment. However, not every experience has a happy ending, and when things don’t go as we wish, it’s natural to long for a different outcome.

But wishing for things to be different is not uncommon, especially around the holidays. Many have found themselves facing difficult circumstances yet have turned things around by embracing gratitude and adapting. Here are a few examples of people who have transformed their holiday experiences into something special:

Oprah Winfrey spent much of her childhood in poverty, yet she often speaks about how gratitude shaped her life. Today, she makes a tradition of giving back during the holiday season, using her platform to spread joy and inspire others to focus on the blessings they have.
JK Rowling, who was a single mother living on welfare, made Christmas a time of magic for her daughter despite her struggles. Now, having created the world of Harry Potter, she donates millions during the holidays to charities helping those in need.
Tyler Perry, who spent time homeless early in his career, turns the holidays into a season of giving. He hosts annual holiday giveaways, ensuring families have food and gifts to celebrate with, demonstrating how kindness and generosity can transform lives.

When we experience the holidays this season, we are bound to be asked about our business because it is part of our identity. These conversations allow us to reflect and express gratitude for the opportunity to build something meaningful. As entrepreneurs, it is up to us to make our own way in the business world. After all, we are the masters of our success.

How we manage our holidays is also up to us. Knowing that gratitude is the secret ingredient to creating joy during this holiday time is the real gift.