“There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”
– Leonard Cohen
Letting the light in is a powerful symbol in many spiritual and cultural traditions, especially at this time of year as the days get shorter and darkness descends.
In my “modern day family” we hang Christmas lights outside our home and we mark the eight days of Hanukkah by lighting the candles of the Menorah. The holiday of Diwali, celebrated last month by Hindus, Sikhs and Jains around the world refers to the clay lamps that are lit up to symbolize the inner light that protects us from spiritual darkness. Some First Nations peoples and Canadians celebrate the Winter Solstice in communal gatherings to mark the changing seasons and welcome the returning sun light. Personally, I love the days between Christmas and New Year’s when there seems to be a collective sigh of relief. We made it through this year together, and the light is about to return.
Yet for many people it can be a stressful time of year, and it is difficult to find a sense of light-ness. Work and family pressures intensify as people rush to get through year end obligations and prepare for whatever holiday time they can get. I hear a lot of clients talking about “pushing through” for a few more weeks. Some people feel overwhelmed and disappointed in themselves that they didn’t get to the things they wanted to accomplish – personally or professionally.
If this describes you, I’d like to invite you to find a way to let go of the heaviness before this year draws to a close. Try using your tradition of lighting candles or a Christmas tree this year to remind yourself of what needs your attention. Or how about a ritual of lighting a flame to symbolize what you can let go of that is no longer serving you. However you choose to mark the season, consider these questions:
- Is there something you need to let go of that is no longer serving you at work or at home?
- Instead of “pushing through” what would happen if you tried to ease up just a little?
- What makes you the happiest and most fulfilled? How can you bring more of that into your life starting today?
To all of my clients, friends and colleagues, I wish you good health, abundant happiness and a season filled with light.
Inspired Reading:
I am grateful for the things I learn from my clients every day. This month I asked a few of them to share books that have inspired them to make a change. Here are two books I am recommending (and reading!) as a result.
Finding Your Way in a Wild New World: Reclaim Your True Nature to Create the Life You Want by Martha Beck
From Coach and bestselling author of Finding Your Own North Star.
Turn the Ship Around! A True Story of Turning Followers Int Leaders by L. David Marquet
“Leadership is communicating to people their worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves. I don’t know a finer model of this kind of empowering leadership than Captain Marquet’s.”
– Stephen Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
I would love to hear from you! If a book, website or podcast has inspired you to make a positive change in your work or life send me a link at lianne@krakauer.ca. or text 647-393-4589.
Holiday Schedule:
Our offices
will be closed from
Dec. 25 – Jan. 5
January 5, 2018.
To book a coaching consultation in January please contact lianne@krakauer.ca.
