Christmas carols. A sparkling Christmas tree. Packages with pretty paper and bows. The smell of fresh-baked Christmas treats.

As a kid, this time of year was magical.

But then I became an adult and tried to force that same holiday magic into existence (during a time when I had to work crazy long hours to close all my year-end deals).

Which pretty much killed the magic.

Thankfully, that magic has been back for the past 11 years. Because I've learned that the magic wasn't about the food, carols, tree, or gifts.

It was thanks to the joy I felt when singing with my grandmother, the laughter shared with my brother while imperfectly decorating our Christmas tree, and cooking cherished family recipes with my Mom.

Which was really about:

• Connection.

• Being present.

• Gratitude

This realization enabled me to let go of needing to create the perfect moment and just be present.

Doing what I enjoy. With - and for - those I love.

How did I make this realization?

Through journaling.

Journaling can sometimes get a bad wrap. It can sound a bit woo. And pressure filled because...

What should you journal about? What if nothing comes to mind?

I've learned that here are many ways in which to journal.

My favorite way is by asking - and then answering - specific questions around how you feel and what’s behind those feelings.

This is how I still use journaling. It calms my mind and even prevents future stress.

And it’s what I’m talking about today on the podcast.

If you are interested in learning how to use journaling to reduce, manage and (best of all) prevent stress and anxiety, be sure to listen to this week’s Life & Law Podcast episode here.

XO,

Heather