Where Is Your Focus this Festive Season? Burden or Gift?

As the festive season approaches, we’re surrounded by reminders of giving and receiving gifts. But not all gifts are wrapped in shiny paper. Sometimes, the most valuable gifts come in the form of perspective. So, here’s a question:

When you look at your job—do you see it as a burden or a gift?

What about your relationships, health, or even your life? Burden or gift?

The Pull of Negativity

See your life not as a series of burdens, but as a collection of gifts waiting to be noticed.

It’s human nature to lean toward negativity. Research shows this tendency begins as early as age five. This phenomenon, called the negativity bias, is our predisposition to notice, dwell on, and react more strongly to negative experiences than positive ones.

As humans, we’re wired to:

• Remember painful events more vividly than joyful ones.

• Focus on criticism over compliments.

• Dwell on problems rather than successes.

• React more strongly to setbacks than to triumphs.

(Source: @VerywellMind)

Breaking Free from the Burden Mindset

So, how do we break this cycle of negative thinking, especially during the holidays—a time for joy and gratitude?

It starts with a simple yet powerful mindset shift: viewing challenges and responsibilities not as burdens but as gifts.

Consider these reframes:

• Your job: Instead of focusing on its challenges, think of it as the opportunity to provide for yourself or your family. Many are searching for work; you have what they yearn for.

• Your partner: They are not be perfect, but remember neither are you! (more in my blog on relationships here) Remind yourself that they care for you, flaws and all. You have someone to share this time with. Isn’t that worth cherishing?

• Your child: When parenting feels hard, pause and see the gift of their happiness, health, and curiosity in a world where many kids struggle.

• Your health: Your body may not be flawless, but it’s yours to nurture. Celebrate the gift of mobility, strength, and resilience.

The Gift of Focus

This season let’s unwrap the most meaningful gift of all: appreciation. By intentionally focusing on what’s good, positive, and possible, we transform our outlook and open ourselves to joy.

Take a moment to pause and ask yourself:

• What gifts already exist in my life that I haven’t noticed?

• How can I shift my focus to gratitude rather than frustration and expectation?

As I say, “Always look for the good, the positive, and the possible.” Because it is always available to you.

Let this festive season be a time to see your life not as a series of burdens, but as a collection of gifts waiting to be noticed.

If you need help on changing your focus, get in touch for a discovery call here