I was talking with a client recently about developing action plans for her holiday To-Dos, and I revisited a question we’ve discussed before – “Where could you use support this Holiday Season?”  I was so happy for her when her response to that question came quite readily!  For so many moms, that the same question  – “Where could you use support right now?”  – is met with silence and a whole lot of concerns over asking anyone else in her life for support or assistance.  My client has come a long way with her comfort around feeling good about asking for support, and she now sees how huge of a difference a little help from family and friends here and there can make in her life.  And, the best part is, they are happy to do it for her!

As I was just thinking back on that conversation, it reminded me of the beautiful Christmas tree we decorated last night in our living room.  The first thing we did before we loaded the tree up with garlands, ornaments, and precious family mementos was to check to be sure the base of the tree was securely steady in its tree stand.  We had the unfortunate situation – not once, but twice – years ago where our gorgeous tree toppled over because it did not have the proper support at its base.  (And let me tell you, month-old “pine-infused” water does not have that wonderful fresh-cut tree smell once it is soaked thoroughly into your living room carpet!!)  We learned the hard way that the proper support is a basic necessity in order for the tree to shine safely and securely in all of its brilliance, without the fear of it toppling over from over-load, even with the most beautiful and delicate of ornaments.

So, I’ll ask you the same question – “Where could you use support this Holiday Season?”  Even the best of moms needs to be sure she allows herself the proper support from others in her life, so she can stand tall and shine brightly, especially with added “weight” of all the extra holiday commitments and responsibilities.  Think about where you could benefit from a little extra support over the coming holiday weeks, and then ask for it – you’ll feel less overloaded and your family and friends will feel great about being there for you!