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Clear Pathways Coaching Newsletter 12/9/08
Dear Friends: Welcome to Clear Pathways Coaching monthly newsletter.
The economy being in such a downward spiral has created greater financial stress around shopping. We can eliminate some of this stress and uplift our spirits by giving gifts of our time and abilities. This kind of gift will have long lasting effects and benefit both the giver and receiver. Read more below. I wish you all a blessed holiday season and New Year.
Warmly,
Lillian
To read this newsletter on-line go to: http://www.clearpathwayscoaching.com
In this issue:
Quote of the Month
The Main Thing
Humor Your Stress
QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
You can’t have a perfect day without doing something for someone who’ll never be able to repay you. - John Wooden
The Main Thing:
“This week, I wanted to focus on the kind of gift that could really make a difference in someone's life - a gift that not only brings joy after the holidays have passed, but also gives you an opportunity to strengthen a relationship with someone you love. It's the gift of your time and talent.
Right now, in this very moment, there's someone you care about who is burdened by a project they feel unequipped to handle - something you do well. Think about it. Is there a family member who has trouble getting organized, a sister who would love help with holiday decorating, or a friend who needs curtains for his new apartment?
This year, instead of spending money on gifts, why not offer to help out? Here's a fun, new approach:
1. Make a list of five people you intend to buy gifts for.
2. Schedule a time to call each one.
3. When you do, say something like:
"Hey Maggie, I know we all have a project or task hanging over our heads that we keep meaning to get done. This year, rather than buy you a gift, I thought I'd offer my time and talent to help you get a project completed. If you're willing, why don't you spend some time this week thinking about something we could do together, and when I call you back next Monday, let me know what you've come up with and we'll schedule a date. How does that sound?"
4. Follow up with a call and, if the person agrees, schedule a date to work on the project together.
There are several benefits to giving this kind of gift. First, you relieve a loved one of the emotional stress that comes from procrastination. Second, you give this person an on-going reminder of how much you care. After all, if you help a friend organize a kitchen closet, he or she will think of you and feel loved every time they open the door. Third, giving the gift of our time adds less "stuff" to the planet. And finally, sharing your talent gives you a chance to spend meaningful time together.
So, this week, consider a new tradition. Just imagine how life would be different if everyone helped each other in this way!” – Cheryl Richardson, Nov. 30, 2008
Humor Your Stress:
“Twas the month after Christmas, and all through the house,
Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste,
At the holiday parties had gone to my waist.
When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).
I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared,
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared.
The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese,
And the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please."
As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt,
And prepared once again to do battle with dirt.
I said to myself, as I only can,
"You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!"
So--away with the last of the sour cream dip,
Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.
Every last bit of food that I like must be banished,
'Till all the additional ounces have vanished.
I won't have a cookie--not even a lick,
I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.
I won't have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie,
I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore,
But isn't that what January is for?
Unable to giggle, no longer a riot,
Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!”
by Cathy W.
He who laughs, lasts.
Lillian Mills, B.S., M.Ed., C.L.C.
Reinvention Coach
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