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As we approach the end of the year and the season of giving, gratitude and kindness, there is a mixture of joy, excitement, anticipation as well as feelings of anxiety, stress and uncertainty about the future. This can be especially true for gifted individuals, who are often more sensitive to the world around them and may be more susceptible to overexcitabilities.
However, there are two important qualities that can help gifted individuals weather this storm: kindness and gratitude.
Kindness is the act of being considerate and helpful to others. It is a quality that is often associated with gifted individuals, who are often empathetic and caring people, in their unique ways. Kindness creates connections to others and reduces feelings of isolation.
Gratitude is the appreciation for what one has. It helps create a focus on the positive aspects of life, even when things are difficult. Gratitude can also help gifted individuals develop a sense of perspective and resilience.
During times of stress and uncertainty, kindness and gratitude can be especially important for gifted individuals. I know I myself need to pause and reflect daily, which is difficult when faced with deadlines, holiday concerts, shopping lists, changes in schedules and all the fun things that come with the end of the year.
First and foremost, be kind to yourself. Remember that you are not alone and that it is okay to feel overwhelmed or stressed. It’s also okay to say no to things, or not participate in what everyone deems as holiday important. Be sure to take care of yourself by eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. When your cup is full you can then…
Be kind to others. Volunteer your time to a cause you care about or simply offer a helping hand to someone in need. Even a friendly smile to your neighbor, picking up trash on a walk or helping your child give back can be a boost to your mental health. According to Mayo Clinic, “kindness has been shown to increase self-esteem, empathy and compassion, and improve mood. It can decrease blood pressure and cortisol, a hormone directly correlated with stress levels. People who give of themselves in a balanced way also tend to be healthier and live longer.”
Practice gratitude. Take some time each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. This could be anything from your health and family to the simple pleasures of life. Gratitude can help you focus on the positive and develop a sense of perspective. And remember, the keyword is practice. I myself have been frustrated with myself when I find myself in a spiral of negativity and wonder why I just can’t be “happy”. It’s a practice, and you have to make time for it daily in your life. Our brains are hardwired to focus on negativity and this is demonstrated socially daily. It can be overcome though, through, yes, practice.
The end of the year, for many, is a time for reflection and celebration. It is also a time to practice kindness and gratitude. By practicing these qualities, we can make the world a better place for everyone.
This month I challenge each of you to join me in being kind to yourself, helping at least one other person, and finding positivity daily.
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