From Dr. Jane's Notebook

What Ho! It's December Again!

Every year at this time, I give some thought to stresses and strains of the holiday season, and try to come up with some guidelines for sanity. I think everyone has their own particular most/least favorite time of the year. Like any other "individualized concern", if things are ging to improve, we really have to give some thought to our approach to the problems we face, and be willing to adjust our perspective.

December is a "pushy" month. Because it marks the end of a calendar year, and deadlines for "shopping", December is a month that takes control. In a short while, we will all have to face the task of remembering and writing the year, 1996. But fear not, like adapting to the change to and from Daylight Savings time, we are all in this together.
December carries high expectations. Because of its social nature, December is a month when we find out how many parties we are invited to, who thinks enough of us to send a card or gift, and we often compare it with all of the Decembers of the past. We might be better off assuming that we will be invited to no parties, receive no cards or gifts, and pretend that this is the first December in all of history!
Write down your New Year's resolutions now.... and get started on them. If you wish to reduce stress in your life, this is good time to change your ways. If you wish to improve family relationships, what better time could there be? If you want to take better care of yourself, make up your plan action so that its ready to go!
Get involved in an important cause. The ex-Mayor of Greensboro, Vic Nussbaum, was recently honored for his many years of civic activity. In his acceptance speech, he issued a challenge to everyone in the audience of the National Conference's Annual Banquet, to choose a project for the betterment of our community, an individual, or a family. He spoke about how he finds "personal meaning" in life through helping others. Volunteer work comes in individual or group efforts, fixed or variable schedules, and long or short-term projects. It can be tailor-made to suit your schedule and interests. The benefits are priceless.

In short, before allowing yourself to be swept up in this December's tide, take a few moments to think about its meaning, costs and rewards. This year, add something new to your holiday ingredients... that will make a positive difference.

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Last Updated August 30, 1998 by Gary M. Grandon, Ph.D.