What Santa has to do with self-care

My son is getting to the age where he is definitely starting to have his suspicions about the whole Santa Claus deal. So, this may be our last Christmas with all the magic…

As I've reflected on Santa’s role in the holidays, I started thinking about the multiple ways that Santa actually embodies self-care:

• Works hard one night a year, but takes lots of vacation time the rest of the year
• Is great at delegating to the elves, mall Santas, and to parents, who basically all act as his assistants around the whole world
• Has a team of reindeer to help fly the sleigh
• Has a long term and loving relationship with Mrs Claus (who likely carries most of the mental load and emotional labour, but that is another story)
• Has simplified a lot of decision making, for example, has his standard red suit he wears everywhere, eats mostly milk and cookies, etc.
• Uses magic strategically, i.e., to help fly his sleigh, deliver presents, and get down those chimneys

I hope we can all take some inspiration and permission from Santa - because to me, one of the biggest lessons is:

We can’t do big things alone. But we can do them with the support of others.

And if you or someone you know is looking for an extra boost of support, please consider signing up for Thrivival Skills for Therapists! 

This is a great way to get 3 CE credits you can complete at a time that works best for you.

Most importantly, taking the time to focus on levelling up your own self-care is really one of the best gifts you could give yourself (or a colleague or employee).

It’s not magic, but pretty close!