Author: Mike Balof

We actually start our year on Monday, January 6, 2025. I thought it would be good to show you what we are up to and how we are trying to improve for you.

Reveille Rocks One Big Thing (OBT) for 2025 is to develop a Kindness and Happiness Academy that will serve 250 – 1000 people and do so better this year.                           

Reveille Rocks entire plan for the year 2025 boils down to one word.  BETTER. 

Did you notice that I did not say perfect? While perfection is a great goal, it can often consume all of your time as you try to hit an all-but-impossible mark. 

When you do something, strive to do better than you did last time and not make the same mistakes. When you do this, you also know the next time you do something, you will want to do better than the last time.

Our goal is to meet your needs and expectations better each time we do something for you. 

The sound of shared laughter is one of the most healing gifts of any holiday season. It bonds us, reduces stress, and lightens even the heaviest moods. Whether retelling family stories, playing silly games, or watching a comedy movie together, moments of shared humor can strengthen connections and ease tension.

Laughter has proven mental health benefits—it releases endorphins, reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and even boosts your immune system. It is also known to create memories you’ll cherish long after the holidays.

Always make time for humor. You can play charades, share favorite jokes, or just let loose during dinner conversation. It’s not about forcing laughter. The whole idea is to create g an atmosphere where things can happen naturally. This is the season to let joy be contagious. The sound of shared giggles could be the highlight of your holidays.

Holidays are about giving. And, volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to embrace the season’s spirit. Whether you serve meals at a shelter, wrap gifts for families in need, or participate in a local food drive, giving back fosters gratitude and connection.

Volunteering benefits your mental health, too—it can reduce stress, improve mood, and even combat feelings of loneliness. You’re not just helping others but nurturing your sense of purpose and belonging.

Involve your friends and family to make it a bonding activity. Kids can learn valuable lessons about kindness and empathy through service. Still, trying to figure out where to start? Check out local nonprofits or search for virtual opportunities if you can’t get out in person.

Volunteering reminds us of the true meaning of the holidays: connection, compassion, and making the world a little brighter.

Staying connected with distant loved ones can be challenging during the holidays, but bridging the gap with creativity and intention has never been easier. Video calls are great, but try going beyond a simple chat. Host a virtual holiday activity, like a cookie-decorating session, a trivia night, or even a shared movie-watch party.

Sending thoughtful gifts or letters can also create a sense of closeness. You can include handwritten notes, personal photos, or even a video message. For something more interactive, try making a holiday playlist that everyone can enjoy, no matter where they are.

The whole idea is that you are letting your loved ones know that they are in your heart. If times are off or schedules clash, try using a simpler way to communicate. Sending a note or email saying, “Thinking of you!” or a voice note can mean the world. Your intention to connect and share is the important thing. Distance should not diminish the joy of togetherness. You can always find a way to communicate.

Today, we finish up with the last six tips for savoring the holidays:

7. Take Mini-Breaks and Reflect 

Find a quiet spot for a few minutes to check in with yourself. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and reflect on something bringing you joy or peace.

8. Saying “No” When Needed Is Good

Overcommitting can tie you in knots. steal the magic of the season. It’s okay to say “no”  if you have too many requests for help. Be sure you have the time to say “yes” to what truly matters.

9. Create No-Tech Moments

There is peace in not being tied to technology every moment of the day. Designate specific times—like a family dinner or holiday activity—as tech-free zones. It lets everyone stay more engaged and present with each other.

10. Focus on the Feelings, Not the Perfect Outcome

Let go of perfection. Instead, ask yourself how you want the holiday to feel—peaceful, joyful, or connected—and make choices that align with that feeling.

11. Don’t Rush Your Holiday Rituals

Whether decorating a tree, lighting candles, or wrapping gifts, do it slowly and carefully. Let the process be as meaningful as the result you attain.

12. Let Your Day   End with Gratitude

Before bed, think of three things from the day that made you smile or feel connected. Closing the day on a happy note is an excellent way to sleep.

1. Start your day with an intention of what you want your day to be

It could be, “Today, I will focus on connection with family,” or “I will find joy in small things.”

2. Use All of  Your Senses

Take time to smell the pine, taste your favorite holiday treat, or hear the sound of laughter. Consciously tune in to what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell. Let each sensation ground you in that moment.

3. Slow Down and Enjoy your Meals

Holiday meals are not a 10-minute race to get back to work. Take your time to notice the flavors and textures of your favorite holiday foods. Put down your fork between bites and share stories or gratitude at the table.

4. Pause and Plan Before Rushing

When you feel overwhelmed, pause, take three deep breaths, and ask yourself, “What truly matters right now?” It’s easy to get caught up in all the hustle. 

5. Use Your Gratitude Tool

Take a minute or two to think about what you are genuinely grateful for. Reflect on what you’re thankful for. It could be family, loved ones, the season, or anything else you think of. Being grateful helps you to be more positive.

6. Stay Fully Present 

Take the time to put down your phone and give your full attention to the person you’re talking to. Listen to them deeply without planning your response, and enjoy the connection you are making with them.

On Monday, I will post items 7 – 12 of this blog. 

Holiday smiles are contagious. There is something about the briskness in the air and the warmth of the holidays this time of year that makes us all feel a little better. Many people have a little extra cheer to share with others.

When we see someone smiling and passing on a good word or two, we all want to join in and participate. Smiles from one person to another are the kinds of epidemics that we could all share and enjoy. It is the kind of sharing that makes us feel better.

This season is the time of year to share happiness with all our loved ones and acquaintances. We should promote peace on earth and goodwill to all.

When someone takes the time to stop by a store and pick me up a Christmas or holiday gift, that is really nice. When Someone takes the time to make me something, whether it is something they baked or they spent time knitting or crocheting or woodworking, that becomes something special. 

The gift from the store was nice. The person who bought it gave it to me. The person who made something is so much more precious because the maker spent much more than money; the maker spent the time they cannot get back. They really cared.

Giving garners gratitude, which is often shared between everyone involved in providing, receiving, or sharing. It can be as little as a hi and a nod passing on the street or as big as helping someone find a place to sleep or their next meal. Everyone involved will find gratitude for the act.

On my daily walks, I often will say hi to many people I pass. I usually have a response rate of around 90% positive. There are occasional days it is lower, yet not that often. 

When We say hi or respond positively to it, Everyone feels better from the emotional uplift. Don’t oversell it. Just try it sometime when you feel comfortable doing so and see if it works for you. Do it when you feel safe doing so.