The Busy, Exhausting, Exciting, and Complex Holiday Season
My father was a florist. He started at a local flower shop in high school, later bought it, and became a master designer for weddings, funerals, and community events. The holidays were when his work came alive: the smells, colors, poinsettias, evergreens, ribbons, music, and the buzz of customers and staff. It was beautiful—and very busy. He worked long hours creating hundreds of centerpieces, decorating businesses and homes, and making sure every widow had a fresh poinsettia. By the end, after the last sprig of holly was cut, arranged, and delivered, he was ready for a long winter’s nap. It was an exhausting season, and not always easy to feel full of cheer.
Perhaps you feel both excitement and pressure this time of year—or maybe loneliness, sadness, or stress. The holidays can be challenging, but here are some strategies that may help. Different things work for different people; try what resonates:
- Reach out to others. Call, text, or video chat with friends or family and let them know you’d like some company.
- Volunteer. Helping others can bring purpose, new connections, and a positive impact.
- Join community events. Attend local gatherings, faith services, or holiday activities to meet people and feel included.
- Participate online. Join supportive online communities or groups that share your interests.
- Create new traditions. Cook a special meal, watch favorite movies, or enjoy a hobby that brings you joy.
- Take care of yourself. Read, move your body, get outside, rest, and treat yourself kindly.
- Plan ahead. Schedule activities and time with friends that you can look forward to.
- Seek professional support. A mental health professional can offer tools to navigate stress and loneliness.
- Embrace giving. Support a cause or do small acts of kindness.
- Practice gratitude. Notice and name what’s going well to shift your mindset.
All of us at The Jan Broberg Foundation wish you a warm and joyous holiday season filled with peace and connection. Whether you’re surrounded by loved ones or navigating challenges, may you find comfort, kindness, and support. You are not alone. May the new year bring hope, renewal, and what you need. Each of us deserves love and cheer this season and always.
Happy holidays with love,
Jan
Launch of the Soul Restoration Retreats with Jan Broberg
We recently held our first Soul Restoration Retreat—a beautiful five-day workshop exploring past experiences and trauma. Deep connections formed with others who have walked similar paths, and the retreat became a tapestry of shared stories, friendships, healing, and support.
At the retreat we talked about embracing the 90% of life that exists beyond trauma, where possibilities are real and present. From lived experience, Jan showed that these aren’t just words—they’re a reality. Together, participants built a mosaic of hope.
The retreat also helped each person recognize they are the hero of their own story. With guidance and support, attendees processed past harm and began (or continued) designing a joyful future.
Joy, love, and success call out to you, too. Watch for upcoming announcements on how to join a future retreat!