Lessons From the Christmas Cactus
The Christmas Cactus is one of my favorite plants. I have had one for close to forty years. The best thing about this little plant is that it blooms – near the end of December - when all the other plants are hibernating.
This plant relies only on what is inside of itself to bloom; its DNA tells it to sprout beautiful pink flowers during the post-holiday period just when we need it most. It does not need anything outside of itself to tell it to bloom nor does it rely on anyone to take care of it. It simply blooms when the time is right.
This plant has success hard-wired into it. Doesn’t it make sense that we do as well? I believe that we are all programmed to succeed and to contribute to the world. Even after you’ve climbed the ladder at work, might there not be more to do? Right now, at this moment, at the end of a few difficult years, and at the start of the new year, maybe it is time to set ourselves up to bloom?
How do we do this?
Start by forgetting past frustrations, failures and disappointments. Remember, every step in life prepares you for the next one. What vital life lessons can you take from past mistakes?
Embrace the challenges that come your way. From pressure and stress comes beauty. Think diamonds, pearls, butterflies. Challenges promote growth. And, remember, difficult times don’t last forever. The situation will change. A new opportunity will arise. Focus on the ways that the current challenges will make you a better person. Take advantage of the opportunities you have in your life and be grateful for the present situation.
Stop complaining. Circumstances in the world and in the financial markets are not ideal right now. But will complaining change the situation? Focus on the positives. Control what you can control and let the rest go.
Keep a positive attitude. It will make even the worst situation better and you are more likely to come to a resolution if you focus on what you can do rather than what is happening to you.
Be a blessing. There is someone who needs what you have to give, what lessons you’ve learned from your perceived failures. Inspire someone and right now. Research has proven that helping others increases our own happiness while also benefitting the community and the wider world.
Celebrate the small things. Try not to get lost in the weeds. Celebrate the flowers.
Visualize the future. The world only spins in one direction – forward. Life is about moving forward. Don’t get stuck. Focus on where you want to go. Dream. Give it your best shot.
Bloom where you are planted. And, don’t be discouraged if all around you right now, other people seem to be blooming while you are not. Think about the Christmas Cactus that lies dormant for 11 ½ months of the year and then, right when the days are darkest, beautiful blooms appear.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” Maya Angelou
Thank you for your support in the last year and best wishes for 2023. Let us bloom and thrive together in the New Year!
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Sources: Horsesmouth, Ascent Publication, HuffPost Contributor Platform