Dear Friend,

The holidays can go by very quickly, and if you’re not intentional, it’s easy not to make the most of the season. Research shows that “savoring,” intentionally living in the moment and noticing good things as they happen, creates positive emotion that can improve your health, happiness and relationships. So this year, savor the season! Here are seven ways to do just that:

1. Make decorating the tree an event, not a chore.

Create a meaningful, memorable tradition out of decorating the Christmas tree. Get the whole family involved. If you live alone, invite others over to take part. Turn on the Christmas music, cook or order in, have some hot chocolate, and take pictures. Have fun.

2. Give Christmas cards in person.

Now, this one is hard if you have 100 people on your list. So choose just a few people to hand deliver cards to. Drop by for a quick visit. It’s a great way to reconnect and adds a personal touch. With so many cards pre-printed with no personal acknowledgment inside, personally signing and delivering a card will make it heartfelt for the recipient.

3. Kiss under the mistletoe.

There are few better ways to savor than a sweet kiss!

4. Go Christmas caroling.

If you really want to get into the spirit, start singing. Whether it’s singing Christmas carols in your own neighborhood, at church or to the elderly at a local nursing home, the camaraderie and fellowship are a great way to savor the season.

5. Play Christmas music.

This is an easy one. Grab your favorite Christmas CD – is it the Temptations? Nat King Cole? Mariah Carey? – and enjoy the music. There’s no other time of year to listen to it, so between now and December 25th, play away!

6. Have a get together.

Celebrate the season with a get-together. Whether it’s just three or four friends for coffee and conversation, or a Christmas party for 50, get together with the people you care about.

7. Worship on Christmas.

In the midst of all the shopping and parties and gift giving, it’s all too easy to forget the reason for the season. Savor the season by going to worship services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, or having your own sacred time at home.

My challenge to you this week: Savor the season. From now until Christmas Day, commit to accomplishing at least 3 of the steps above.

Coaching question: What will you do to ensure that you are able to enjoy the holiday season with those you love?

Until next time,

Valorie Burton is an author of eight books,     including    her   latest,  Your 5  Minute   Personal  Coach. She is  founder   of  the    Coaching  and  Positive  Psychology   (CaPP) Institute. Subscribe  to  her  free e-newsletter  at www.valorieburton.com