The holidays conjure up all kinds of images and memories – from the happy gatherings with loved ones, to the cheerful décor and spirited gatherings as well as the potential land mines which can bring on explosive outbursts over past hurts, unfulfilled expectations and disappointments.

There it is…in the sentence above you’ve just read the one word which, with a bit of self-awareness, has the power to change everything, Reread the sentence: Can you pick it out?

The word is “Expectations.”

Even though we might readily define the word expectation as “what we expect will happen,” or even “what we hope will happen” as we interact with others, the condition of expectation is fraught with the potential for others to let us down as they fall short of our ideas about how things should be in a given moment.

This season try a new word: “Intention”

Intention, that is, having some forethought on how you wish to be as you interact with others, is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Recognizing the value of those who share your time on the planet and understanding the ways your connection to others can be enriched is a most empowering way for each of us to approach the holiday season! And in fact, as you develop your strength in this arena, you will discover this is an “everyday tool” for greater happiness and healthier relationships year round.

As a basic philosophy, Body and Brain Education founder Ilchi Lee suggests gravitating toward empowering your brain with good news, positive developments and kind words. To develop daily intention toward your relationships, ask yourself these questions before you interact with others each day:

1. How might I participate and interact in a way which empowers both myself and the other?

2. Can I offer the truth and integrity to others which I expect in return?

3. What are the ways I can learn and grow from the relationships I share with others?

Above all, carry the INTENTION to keep a positive mindset regardless of the circumstances. This will act as a filtering system for the quality of your own thoughts and help to create harmonious outcomes in your interactions with other.

There is nothing standing in your way, and this all comes from within. Make this the season that you joyfully remember and come into who you are!

Visit your local Body & Brain Center for more help with holiday intentions and for information on December’s free HEALTHIER TOGETHER workshop: “Family Health: Love and Heal.”

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