Finding Balance this Holiday Season and the Power of Contentment

As the holiday season gets well underway,do you find yourself overwhelmed with endless tasks, yearning for a moment of peace?

In my role as a virtual executive assistant, I’m dedicated to helping my clients achieve work life balance. 

Like many of you,  I’ve realised I need to apply this more to my own life. Being committed and driven means I work very hard, always adapting and showing flexibility. 

But burning the midnight oil and doing all of the things might seem productive in the short term but it can lead to burnout. 

It’s really important to set boundaries and schedule in rest time. I strive to follow my own advice even when it’s challenging.

This year, I’m booked out of the office from 18th December to 7th January. When I take time to rest, I’ve noticed great things happen (more on that in the January 2025 blog). 

Whizzdom from the Mat - how can Yoga practice benefit us? 

Yoga has become my sanctuary, a non negotiable part of my week, teaching me balance both on and off the mat. 

Working daily with inspiring and extraordinary business owners, I am surrounded by huge drive and ambition and success. Yoga practice reminds us that finding contentment and taking time for slow productivity is equally as important and I’d like to encourage you to remember to look after yourselves.

Abbie Riley, Yoga Teacher and Founder of the beautiful yoga studio at Nest Yoga, recently gave some thought provoking reflections during class on the importance of santosha, meaning contentment in Sanskrit, and is a profound concept of yoga philosophy. 

It was such a grounding moment which I thought you might benefit from being reminded of too. Abbie gave some examples of finding santosha in the little moments like appreciating the sound of rainfall on a cold dreary day or by stopping for a few extra moments to savour the warmth and taste of a hot drink. 

Balance Between Effort and Ease 

In yoga, we learn to balance effort with softening —pushing ourselves while also respecting our limits. 

This is crucial in business and by knowing when to strive for more and when to reflect and appreciate what I've achieved, I'm finding my wellbeing is much more centred. 

Recharge Through Rest 

Yoga values the importance of rest as much as action. Adding in periods of rest in our schedules ensures that we have the energy needed for work and play. If you can find contentment regardless of what’s happening around you, you can start to live more intentionally and choose what to spend your energy on. 

Practical Tips for Maintaining Balance and finding Santosha 

Schedule Downtime Sometimes the feeling of overwhelm can be paralysing and it’s difficult to make changes. Whatever it is you feel you need more of, take a small daily step towards it. Sometimes things get in the way and naturally you may not achieve it but don’t be put off, try again - it’s not a race. 

Set Realistic Goals Prioritise tasks that truly matter and set achievable goals for this busy season. 

Practice Gratitude This is my favourite practice- take a moment each day to reflect on what you're grateful for—this simple practice can shift your focus away from stress and into appreciation and santosha. 

Add Movement to your Day Just make it regular - focus on consistency over effort every time. 

Are you getting enough help? 

Between year-end business goals, seasonal events, holiday preparations, school performances, costumes, fairs, and personal commitments, this time of year can feel like a pressure cooker and trying to maintain momentum can lead to burnout. 

One of the most effective ways to maintain balance is by outsourcing certain tasks. “You can do anything, but you shouldn’t have to do everything.” 

Investing in an executive assistant can free up so much time. From routine tasks such as scheduling, email management, research and planning, personal errands to project support - you’ll be surprised at what you can outsource effectively to an experienced and trusted professional.

Freelancers or part-time flexible help can provide the support needed without the long-term commitment. 

If you need a helping hand or a reminder, I’m in your corner - your trusted confidante and cheerleader - don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need me.

In the meantime I wish you and your loved ones a joyful and contented Christmas season!

Warmest wishes, Isabelle