Every no is an opportunity to say yes to something better. Hosting Thanksgiving is often a balancing act of trying to fit everything in and make it all “perfect.” This year I intentionally chose a different approach. I said no to the things that didn’t bring me joy or meaning, so I could say yes to what truly matters. Here’s what I let go of: ► Checking email or scrolling social media ► Making dishes that don’t spark joy (no stuffing!) ► Cooking everything on Thanksgiving day ► Stressing over a perfectly clean and decorated home Here’s what I gained: ► Time to call and message people who matter ► Sweet, uninterrupted moments with my family ► Real memories captured with my good camera ► Permission to myself to lean into the joy of Christmas music and decor. It makes me happy, so why wait? TIME Real, unhurried time to just BE. We can’t say yes to everything and when we try, we often lose what matters most in the shuffle. As I reflect on Thanksgiving, I’m reminded that sometimes the best memories come from focusing less on doing and more on being. What strikes me most is how often we cling to the idea of “doing it all,” even when it doesn’t serve us. Letting go of the unnecessary gave me room to enjoy Thanksgiving rather than be hurried. As we step into the rest of the holiday season, I’m carrying this mindset with me. Because the best memories aren’t built on perfection, they’re built on presence. What’s one thing you’re saying no to this season so you can say yes to what matters most?
Choosing joy and connection over perfection is a lesson I keep learning and every year it gets a little easier.
I like to ask myself "What must be true" and let that guide my planning. It helps me see where to prioritize my efforts and where I can make space.
Ooo... Stuffing is one of the few joyful Thanksgiving dishes for me. 😂
Love this ❤️
Brandi Larkin, PMP Happy Thanksgiving
This inspires me to rethink my own priorities this season. Let’s prioritize joy and connection. 💛 Happy Thanksgiving, Brandi!
Brandi Larkin, PMP i’m limiting my time here online every day, and I’m focusing more on daily healthy actions access, keeping my word to myself over the result. Next year, I’m definitely planning more time intentionally so I can get more done in a fewer hours.
Happy Thanksgiving Brandi!
Reclaiming time, focus, & energy through clarity, community, & strategy. Adopting & adapting proven frameworks. Testing, trialing, & experimenting often. Embracing experiences. Reframing 'failure'. Denying perfectionism.
1moIt’s amazing how much freedom comes from realizing we don’t have to do it all. I hope this post inspires others to embrace the beauty and bounty of less.