By Debra LeClair Psy.D.

I couldn’t help but notice that the holiday ads this year are already prodding us to outdo last year. Seriously?! Do we really have to be in competition with ourselves or anybody else for that matter?

Wouldn’t it be better to take that energy and focus it on what would make us truly merry, joyful and maybe even peaceful? Right now, before the season moves into high gear, is a good time to connect with how you would like to experience the holidays.

Four questions to help you do just that are:

When it comes to the holidays this year, what matters to me the most?

What would help me stay connected to what is most important?

Are there expenses, activities, thoughts, feelings, etc. that have been a part of past holiday seasons, that no longer serve me?

What do I need to let go of those aspects?

Debra LeClair Psy.D. Is a life/executive coach, trainer and psychologist who helps those seeking career satisfaction, enhanced communication skills and improved team/individual performance. She owns Full Spectrum Wellness LLC, a holistic health and learning center www.fullspectrumwellness.com and co-owns Platinum Principle Training & Development, LLC, www.platinumprinciple.com, a company that specializes in team building and leadership training for organizations.