What if December Were Called July?
A bit of a rant on the "end-of-year hustle mode". If you feel the vibe, I have a soothing short-film about Richard Alpert aka Ram Dass for you. 30 minutes of wisdom, I promise.
Every year, the same procedure. It's the beginning of December, and everyone at work is on edge. Deadlines loom, new projects hastily commence, we're chasing KPIs, OKRs, you name it – pick your acronym.
From CEOs to interns, it seems like everyone is running after one single goal: ticking off their to-do list. Because that’s the golden ticket to relaxation, right? Then, and only then, they are 'allowed' to chill, to reflect, to sit at the dinner table where the golden turkey, goose, or any other delicacy awaits them. (Vegan options included, of course)
What if every month were like July?
As the hamster wheel accelerates, driven by our own actions, we talk about resilience and mindfulness, subscribe to meditation apps, and even start newsletters on these topics. ^^ Yet, we often overlook our ingrained habits. I know, the system is tough, especially in the workplace, nudging us into “end-of-year hustle mode”. Decisions are made, actions taken, often not out of desire or necessity, but to wrap up the year.
But imagine if every month were called July. Would you still set the same goals? Or would you plan more sensibly or be more aware of what goals are actually realistic to achieve?
Group dynamics can be powerful, wonderful, lifting you to heights you never thought possible. However, it can also put you in the washing machine on full spin – especially at the end of the year.
Trying to jump like a kangaroo with our little hamster legs
There are countless studies showing how prolonged high cortisol levels can lead to serious health issues: diabetes, high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, depression, cancer. We know this, yet in December – the month of so-called contemplation – we attempt kangaroo leaps on our little hamster legs. (And please look how tiny they are)
It's simply pointless. Even if we manage to clear our to-do lists, or pass impossible tasks to colleagues, we're still pushing our cortisol levels to the max, then numbing ourselves with mulled wine, excessive sugar intakes and packed Christmas market visits. Then the holidays arrive, and we're all just pumped hamsters sprawled on the carpet, of course, expecting a peaceful and tranquil Christmas.
Well, for some, their dreams will come true. But let’s be realistic here. Chances are high that Uncle Wolfgang or Auntie Wilma will annoy you with a thoughtless comment on politics because they are also high on cortisol.
The stress of Christmas often leads to tensions, arguments – even divorce. And let's not forget those who spend Christmas alone. This loneliness, compounded by a stressful December and unchecked to-do lists, can be mentally overwhelming – and sometimes lead to serious effects. Let’s not support that.
A short film about being
Reflecting on my year, it's been tough and marked by loss and grief. Death has a way of anchoring us in the present. So here I am, sipping coffee and asking myself: Why do we do this to ourselves? Habits, group dynamics, society, neo-liberalistic behaviour, or do we simply love the rush of the rollercoaster? I certainly don’t want to be part of it. But realistically, I am, actively fighting against it.
However, when I started this newsletter I promised you inspirational content and here it is: a short-film about Richard Alpert, also known as Ram Dass – a former psychology professor turned Hinduism follower after a life-changing experience with mushrooms. "Ram Dass Going Home" is about the essence of being. It’s just 30 minutes long, but it's packed with wisdom – a perfect break from all the hustling.
And the next time you're being rushed by someone or even by yourself, think of Ram Dass's words:
"We are souls. We are not under time or space. We are infinite."
I’m sure this will make your boss asking you for another thing to do before Christmas leave immediately. (Thank me later).
Here is the trailer followed by the link directly to Netflix.
And please remember to take care of yourself and those around you.
Cheers, Katie