Jane Hancock, Acting Chief Executive

Queensland summer

Christmas is only a few days away and I’ve been reflecting on the year. For many, 2023 has been busy and at times less than joyful. I am definitely looking forward to a reset and some festive cheer in the coming days.

This time of year I like to remember what brings me joy and actively seek out ways to bring some light and laughter to my days. There is joy for many of us in our work, our sense of purpose and in service to others. There is joy in community and family, in coming together with those we care about to share a meal or a moment.

Some of the small things that bring me joy over this season are the time I spend with my mother each year making the Christmas pudding from my grandmother’s recipe. It’s a lovely way to reflect on the past and our memories. Yes, we definitely have Christmas music in the background.

Other things that bring joy to me are getting out into nature for a walk and taking in the scenery and the colours of a Queensland summer. This time of year I love cooking for my family and friends. I am also a jam maker, and last weekend watching a batch of peach jam bubbling in my copper pot gave me a sense of joy and achievement. The colours were spectacular, and it just made me happy.

Finding moments of joy – big or small – is a huge benefit to our wellbeing and mental health. Whether you are working through the festive season or taking some time off, I hope you find some time to locate or create joy for yourself and those around you.

The Christmas period is often very busy and the expectations and to-do lists can cause stress. I encourage you to take a few moments each day to set yourself up for festive season success. This is especially important for those who will be working on the public holidays and through the break. We are grateful for your service and the work you will do. Thank you.

Your call to action:

• Embrace small joys and simple pleasures.
• Practice gratitude (a daily gratitude practice has been proven to turn around your mindset in a short period).
• Take a few minutes for yourself to do something you enjoy (read, walk, listen to music, breathe!).
• Spend time with people whose company you enjoy.
• Be kind to yourself and to others.

And don’t put extra pressure on yourself with resolutions that stress you out more. If you’re a resolution person, make them reasonable, achievable and don’t punish yourself if you don’t achieve them.

I also acknowledge that this time of year can be difficult for various reasons. If you are not feeling the joy, please remember that Metro North offers a range of free confidential social, emotional, financial and physical wellbeing support services you can draw on at any time.

However you celebrate – or don’t – I wish you and all those whom you love and care for every happiness and moments of joy now and many more in 2024.

Warm regards,

Jane.