A couple of days ago, I found myself on a walk with one of my clients. It was still early in the day and the morning was cloudy and cold. We were freezing, so we entered into a restaurant too warm up. My client ordered a hot tea, and I told our server that I would like a chocolate chocolate. She looked at me with confusion and asked what that was and I told her that I wanted a double hot chocolate. She still was confused, so she asked me if I meant two cups of hot chocolate. I asked her if they sold double espressos; she said yes. I told her that I wanted the same thing only a double chocolate instead of a double expresso.
She said, "sir, we put five pumps of chocolate in our hot chocolate, are you sure you want us to put ten in yours?" I responded with a hearty yes. Then she said, "that is going to be like melting a candy bar and drinking it", and I said, "yes, now you are speaking my language."
My client was surprised because I normally order a shot of wheat grass or some other healthy snack. So I explained the beauty of what I call my holiday splurge.
The Holiday Splurge
Usually, I am very conscious about what I eat and drink, but I like to treat myself at Christmas time. By doing this, I save myself the guilt I would normally feel by consuming all of the tasty treats that are either created by my beautiful wife or delivered by our loving friends and family.
I love this holiday splurge, and it doesn't just include a lapse in wholesome eating. I also tone down my exercise routine. It gives me the opportunity to focus on other things, like sleeping in and sitting around listening to music and watching movies with my kids.
My body enjoys the rest and my taste buds enjoy the feast. I may gain a few pounds, but they are quickly shed, when I get back to my routine in January.
Taking A Break
Breaks from our normal routine are important. They give us a chance to catch our breath and enjoy the view. They actually increase our ability to focus, because they allow us the space to consider what is important.
I enjoy the challenge of exercising and eating healthy. Both give me great stores of energy during the year. I savor the renewal I feel from relaxing during this time of year, and I am always ready to hit it when January comes around.
Think about your daily routine:
What commitments are driving your success?
What benefits might you enjoy if you took a break from them to enjoy the holidays?
How can you use the holiday season more wisely to enjoy the breaks your body and mind need?
Rest is good. It invigorates us and allows us the space to see why we do what we do. It is cold here this morning. I think I will go out for another chocolate chocolate.
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