This Holiday Season - Unplug From Negativity: Focus On Peace, Connection & Common Ground Instead

One of the basic tenets I learned in coaching school decades ago was, "where you focus will grow." If you focus on what you fear, that energy grows within and around you, bringing into your focus all that you fear about it, whether it is actually coming to pass or not.

As the Holiday season draws near, it’s easy to get caught in the swirl of negativity and fearmongering that often dominates the media and political discourse. Headlines scream for your attention, sensational stories fuel divisive debates, and political rhetoric can leave you feeling drained and disconnected. But this season offers a perfect opportunity to press pause, unplug, and focus on what truly matters: the joy of being with loved ones.

The Cost of Constant Negativity

In a 24/7 news cycle, it’s tempting to stay "in the know." But being constantly connected to fear-driven narratives can take a toll on mental and emotional wellbeing. Research shows that exposure to negative news can increase stress and anxiety, leaving a person feeling helpless and overwhelmed. Carrying this emotional weight into holiday gatherings, can zap the joy out of what should be a season of love and gratitude.

Politics, in particular, has a way of driving wedges between friends and families. Spirited debates can quickly turn into heated arguments, overshadowing the shared traditions and connections that bring people together.

Ask yourself:

Am I choosing to focus on negativity?
What are my dominant thoughts and emotions?

Am I focused on things that aren't happening and may not happen?

Why Unplugging Matters

The Holidays are a brief period of time each year that brings opportunity to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with the people who matter most. By stepping away from divisive media and political rhetoric, you create space to rediscover common ground and nurture the relationships that truly enrich your life. When you let go of the need to be right, prove a point or stay engaged with every headline, you gain the freedom to be fully present.

Imagine a Holiday where conversations revolve around shared memories, laughter, and the simple joys of the moment—not the latest political controversy. Unplugging allows you to focus on the here and now, fostering deeper connections and leaving room for gratitude to flourish.

Tips for a Politics-Free, Peace Filled Holiday

Set Boundaries
Decide in advance to limit your media consumption. Turn off news notifications, and give yourself permission to step away from political discussions. If the subject comes up, gently steer the conversation back to lighter, more inclusive topics. Decide to check your politics at the door.

Focus on Gratitude
Make gratitude the centerpiece of your Holiday season. Share what you’re thankful for, celebrate each other’s accomplishments, and savor the small moments of joy that often go unnoticed. If you are in gratitude, you won't be in anger or fear.

Rediscover Common Ground
Remember, you don’t have to agree on everything to enjoy time together. Highlight shared values, like love for family, hope for the future, or cherished traditions. Common ground often leads to the most meaningful connections. Share fun memories with each other. Maybe even bring pictures of past gatherings out.

Engage in Meaningful Activities
Whether it’s baking cookies, playing games, or going for a walk, shared activities create opportunities for laughter and bonding without the need for heavy conversation.

Be Fully Present
Resist the urge to scroll through your phone or check the latest updates. Put your devices aside and give your loved ones the gift of your undivided attention.

A Season for Connection and Peace

The Holiday season is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect. By unplugging from the noise of the media and politics, you can reclaim the joy of the season and build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Choose to focus on what unites rather than what divides. After all, the most precious gift you can give one another is the gift of your presence.

So, this Holiday season, make a collective choice to leave the negativity behind, celebrate the good, and rediscover the simple joys of being together. Who knows? You might just find that unplugging is the best connection of all.

Here’s to a Holiday season filled with peace, laughter, and love - which, by the way, is what it is all about anyway.

Wishing you blessings and abundance as we move through this Holiday season.