Disclaimer: I am a hypnotherapist, not a social anthropologist, and I have no factual or statistical evidence to back up this bold statement! That said… at this time of the year, I reckon that most people fall into one of these two categories:
1. those who love giving presents or
2. those who love receiving presents.
Of course, they’re not mutually exclusive. You can enjoy giving and receiving presents. There are those who adamantly don’t engage with any type of present-related activity, and I also appreciate that financial limitations can impact our preferred behaviour.
But the reason I find this so interesting is that our attitude towards the giving and receiving of gifts often mirrors our mindset and beliefs.
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Why I Start My Christmas Shopping in February
Disclosure: I am that person who does their Christmas shopping all year round! I love the excitement of discovering the perfect gift for someone and buying it there and then – even if it’s only February! If a friend or family member casually mentions that there is something they would really like, then I immediately write it down on my “Top Secret Present List” and therefore avoid the pre-Christmas stress and any unnecessary panic-buying!
I do this because I’ve learned through experience that this preparation and forward planning keeps me calm and in control – and that then allows me to appreciate and enjoy the full benefits of the festive season.
And seeing the delighted faces as gifts are being unwrapped on Christmas morning? That’s a bonus present – just for me!
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What the Season of Giving Teaches Us About Self-Care
Becoming aware of where our energy and attention is being focused, either meeting our own needs or those of others, gives us an insight about aspects of our lives that might be getting overlooked.
To continue the Christmas present metaphor… if your attention is exclusively focused on the demands of others and giving them what they want – then you might be neglecting your own needs. Alternatively, if you stay in a “it’s-all-about-me bubble” – then this can impact the quality of your relationships and possibly exclude you from exploring new opportunities.
Self-care is important 365 days a year, but it is especially important during the festive season. At Silverbrook Hypnotherapy, I regularly see clients who are exhausted by all the juggling involved in their day-to-day lives. So, one of the first things I do is ask them to consider whether they’re juggling any “balls” they no longer need.
Often, it can feel easier to just keep going rather than take the time to stop and evaluate: What’s important to me now?
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2025 in Review
As I reflect on my progress and achievements in 2025, I like to think that I have followed Oscar Wilde’s advice: “Everything in moderation, including moderation.”
On the Positives:
– My client base has continued to grow and my network has expanded.
– I have finally crossed “Write a Book” off my life-long bucket list (Hurrah!).
– I have helped more people overcome the fears and obstacles holding them back.
– I went on some lovely holidays and had a lot of fun with family and friends.
On the Negatives:
– My time-management could have been better.
– I realised that procrastination still pays me the occasional visit.
– I have more to learn about running the back-end of a business.
– Social media continues to challenge me(!).
– “Declutter the garage” is still on my To Do List…
But all things considered, I have continued to move forward towards my goals. I have remained connected with my amazing family and friends and – something I didn’t see coming twelve months ago – I have become a Women Thrive Speaker!
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A Free Gift: Just For You
So, if you find this time of year difficult – for whatever reason – then I’ve got a gift for you. A moment of recalibrating relaxation. This present is non-refundable and will never expire.
Taking care of YOU is important – because you are important!
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Escape on a 5-Minute Mind Holiday
If the festive frenzy is making you feel more frazzled than festive, then consider this your official invitation to pause.
Here’s a super-simple relaxation exercise for anyone who needs a moment of calm:
Step 1: Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. Sit comfortably, feet on the floor, hands resting gently in your lap.
Step 2: Close your eyes and take three deep, calming breaths. In through your nose… and gently out through your mouth.
Step 3: Now, draw your attention inwards and in your mind’s eye, picture your very own “happy place”. It could be a real beach you’ve visited, a cozy reading nook, a calming forest or a completely made-up fantasy world.
Step 4: Immerse yourself in that scene. Notice the colours, sounds, smells, and textures. What can you hear? What’s the temperature like? How does your body feel now?
Step 5: Stay in your happy place for a few minutes. Let your muscles relax, your shoulders drop, and your breathing settle.
When you are ready, gently open your eyes and notice how much calmer you feel.
That was your gift to you – and you can unwrap it anytime you like.
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My book “Step Into Your Spotlight: the TV insider’s guide to feeling confident when all eyes are on YOU!” will be released in February 2026.
Name: Annette Williams
Professional Title: Confidence Hypnotherapist
Bio: Annette Williams is a former multi award-winning TV producer and the founder of Silverbrook Hypnotherapy. She specialises in helping professional women get the credit they deserve, by unblocking their confidence to stand up and speak out. The Goal? For her clients to live a life they love, without limitations.
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