In this solo episode of Message in the Middle, host Marianne reflects on her Thanksgiving experience and how she has transformed her approach to holiday gatherings. She candidly shares her journey from chasing perfection to embracing imperfection, creating a more peaceful, meaningful, and authentic holiday season.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by holiday expectations or struggled to “do it all,” this episode may resonate with you. Marianne’s insights, personal anecdotes, and practical strategies will encourage you to prioritize what matters, let go of unrealistic standards, and find joy in your messy, but beauty of life.

Key Topics Covered:

1. The Cost of Chasing Perfection
   • The emotional, physical, and mental toll of trying to create a "storybook" holiday.
   • Recognizing how internal pressures often outweigh external expectations.
2. A Journey to Peaceful Holidays
   • How Marianne shifted her perspective over the years through personal growth and reflection.
   • Embracing imperfection and accepting people for who they really are.
3. Strategies for a Perfectly Imperfect Holiday:
   • Prioritize What Matters: Using the 80/20 rule to focus on key elements.
   • Set Realistic Goals: Scaling back traditions and simplifying the holiday process.
   • Delegate and Ask for Help: Letting go of the need to do it all.
   • Practice Self-Compassion: Recognizing and reframing old habits when they surface.
   • Cultivate Gratitude: Shifting focus to the positives through a gratitude practice.
4. Embracing Imperfection in Others
   • Letting go of unrealistic expectations 
   • Accepting people for who they are and finding deeper, more authentic connections.

Gratitude and Reflection Prompts:
Marianne shares some thoughtful journaling prompts to help you reflect on what you’re grateful for and how your perspective on the holidays has evolved. Use these to deepen your gratitude practice and shift your focus to the meaningful moments this season.

Key Takeaways:

• The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful.
• Letting go of control and unrealistic expectations creates space for joy and connection.
• Gratitude and acceptance can transform your perspective and lead to more fulfilling experiences.

Connect with Marianne:

• Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne
• Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966
• Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne

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