For many of us, the holidays can be fun but overwhelming. We savor the parties, the decorations, the visits with family and friends but there's the stress of adding more activities - shopping, sending holiday cards, social commitments, etc. - to already full plates. Even if we start out with enthusiasm and expectation, we're often left feeling physically exhausted and emotionally depleted by the end of this festive season.

The holidays can be a time of joy and fulfillment if we just maintain a sense of perspective. Below are three ways to do just that:

1) Borrow from the past. What made previous celebrations special? What memories come to mind? What was satisfying about them? Use the best pieces of the past to create the best celebration this year and in the future.

2) Start planning the holiday you want. Think about what your dream experience would look like so you can design a celebration of your own making. Do you crave rest, relaxation and rejuvenation? Do you want to party with 100 of your closest friends? Could you use a holiday getaway with your partner? Your festivities should reflect who you are and how you have fun.

3) Celebrate. Now that you've taken the best pieces from the past and planned a holiday that will bring you joy, it's time to actually enjoy yourself. Don't worry if a dessert is runny or if a gift isn't exactly the right size, enjoy the interactions and opportunities to share with people you love. So don't sweat the small stuff, just go have fun.

Your Life in Balance Virtual Retreat
Saturday, February 3, 2007
10 - 2 pm (PST)

- Are you a busy professional seeking a better balance between work and life?

- Are you ready to do the work to create this change?

Join us for a half-day "Your Life in Balance" virtual retreat from the comfort of your own home.

You Will Learn How To:
- Evaluate your current level of work/life balance
- Envision your future
- Determine your values and priorities
- Create and commit to an action plan
- Celebrate

You Will Receive:
- "Your Life in Balance" Virtual Retreat Manual
- 4 hours of structured individual and group activities
- A half hour one-one-one coaching call two weeks after the retreat
-A group follow-up conference call one month after the retreat

How it Works:
During the virtual retreat, you'll connect by phone to a bridge-line every hour for approximately 15-20 minutes and will participate in activities and exercises for the remaining part of the hour.

How to Register:
The virtual retreat is limited to 12 participants. To register, please contact Amber Rosenberg at amber@pacificlifecoach.com or (415) 637-3855. The cost is $75 if you register by 1/19/07 or $95 thereafter. Click here to download the retreat information sheet.

Survey on Group Coaching Topics:
In 2007, Pacific Life Coach will be offering 90-day group coaching programs on specific topics for busy professionals. Following is a list of potential topics - please email me with the topics that most interest you and feel free to propose new topics as well. Thanks in advance for your feedback!

- Work/Life Balance
- Time Management
- Stress Management
- Communication Skills
- Self Confidence
- Life Purpose