Embrace the Holiday Shift: Cultivate Self-Directed Priorities and Presence

The holiday season changes the rhythm of daily life. Workflows slow, routines loosen, and schedules shift. A variance in regular deadlines and routines requires us to be more self-directed in our priorities, follow-through, and presence. Whether we stay disciplined, drift, or invest in others—quietly shapes the culture around us.

Looser schedules create space to build virtue. With fewer demands competing for attention, we have greater freedom to reflect, reset habits, and act with intention rather than urgency. Virtues like self-discipline, gratitude, humility, and generosity can be cultivated during this season. We have an opportunity, when we're not pressed by deadlines and obligation, to be intentional in our choices.

Flexibility also offers opportunities for service. Extra time allows us to notice needs that are often missed during busier seasons—within families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities. Service during the holidays doesn’t require large gestures or formal programs; it often begins with availability. The challenge this time of year is filling available time entirely with comfort and entertainment. We can overcome this by intentionally giving some of our margin away.

Three Actions to Build Leadership, Virtue, and Service

1. Use added margin intentionally, creating simple rhythms that protect purpose and follow-through.

2. Practice one virtue consistently, such as gratitude or generosity, throughout the season.

3. Choose a meaningful way to give time, using flexibility to meet real needs close to home or work.

Join the WWTO Community in the Comment Section!

1. How does having more flexible time reveal our leadership and priorities?

2. What habits help prevent comfort and distraction from shaping our choices during this season?

3. Where could we use our time and attention to serve others more intentionally right now?