We are right on the cusp of the holiday season. Our calendars are packed and we are looking forward to enjoying our family, friends and the real meaning of the holidays. But, we see a number of ‘events’ on our path…decorating, shopping, menu planning, cooking, baking, and celebrations. You have a choice to make – will you see these activities and events as hurdles you have to get over or will you look at these as opportunities? You may think that this is stretch but let me explain.

It is all about perspective. I recommend that you take the perspective of: I am in control of my life. I make choices which guide my direction/journey. I am not a victim of my circumstances. Then, these holidays are an opportunity for you to exercise this muscle. You stand in a place of choice. You can choose how you will manage the stress associated with the holidays.

Here are some of my Effective Stress Management Strategies which you can start using today!

Most people have their own personal tapestry of about five symptoms of stress. For example: muscle tension (neck, back, shoulders), agitation, increase in illness, loss of decisiveness, increased frustration, worry, and/or feeling overwhelmed with choices.

When you feel this reaction coming on, ask yourself why. What is it that creates your stress reaction? When are they happening and what is triggering them? Journal your findings. Recognition of your stressors is important, because then we are able to deal with them.


At any point in your life there are things which you can and cannot control. As much as you would like to, you cannot control other people’s behaviour, traffic, long line-ups, the number of hours in the day, the timing of your teenager’s mood swing nor your toddler’s temper tantrum. So, do not waste your precious energy stressing out about these things. Focus on managing your stress reaction to the things you can control. For example, how you react to and treat other people, your to-do list (how many items on it), how your time is spent (what and where), how your money is spent (budget) and most importantly, your sense of self worth.


Making healthy choices to cope with the stress of our busy lives is essential. We are in control of these choices. Poor choices such as overeating, excessive alcohol or being passive abusive only mask our problems and often they make them worse. Choose to ignore that little voice in your head which is steering you in the wrong direction, especially the negative self talk. Make healthy choices such as good nutrition, physical activity, assertiveness, relaxation techniques, limited caffeine and more sleep! By choosing healthy coping strategies we are physically and mentally stronger so we will cope better with unexpected and frustrating situations.


Most of our stress is caused by our internal perception of external events. It is not the event itself that upsets us, but how it compares with our expectations of ourselves and others. When our expectations are unrealistic, we are almost guaranteed to feel some disappointment, frustration and even anger – it is a trap we unwittingly set for ourselves. So, why do we choose to do it? The reality is that we are human and therefore we can’t do it all, we can’t be all things to all people, we will make mistakes, and no matter how hard we try there are some people who we just cannot please. It would be easier if we stopped putting such impossible expectations on ourselves. Aim high but don’t purposely set yourself up to fail.


It is so important to incorporate fun and humour into your life. You will be able to create an atmosphere that is alive and full of vitality – a happy place to be. A deep belly laugh stimulates the brain to produce endorphins. These endorphins renew you physically, mentally and emotionally. Also, they contribute to feelings of relaxation and refreshment. I savour the magical feeling which is created when my children and I have a good laugh together. You don’t have to create elaborate ‘have fun’ plans. Look for humour and fun in your everyday life – dance with your kids/your partner, sing your favourite holiday tunes, doodle, wander around a book store, go ice skating on a pond, wear a colorful scarf, surprise a friend who could use a laugh, experience the holidays through the eyes of a child – how wonderful!

You have asked and here it is!

In a supportive and energetic manner, I will help you to achieve your New Year’s Resolutions! Take advantage of this opportunity!

This great Life Coaching Boot Camp includes:

• Five group workshops (1.5 hours each)
• A Personalized and Effective Goal Achievement Action Plan
• Effective Skills and Techniques to achieve and maintain Life Balance and a more Fulfilled Life
• On-going Support and Guidance to bring your plan to reality
• Access to my wide array of life learning and expertise
• Email support between sessions
• Special Feature: A one-on-one coaching session with Eva-Marie!

Special Price: $100 (incl. GST)

What a great opportunity for Personal Development and a Fun night out! Bring your friends!

I am here to help you. You are worth it!

Click here to Sign-up

Space is limited. Take advantage of this unique opportunity NOW before the boot camp fills up!

* One Month – Introduction to Life Coaching
* Three Month – Go for Your Goals! Enrich your Life!
* Six Month – Life Changing!

To fit any budget. Wrapped and ready to give to the people you care about – even yourself!

Call me today at 416-237-1986 or email me at evamarie@gemlifecoaching.com.

If you are still not sure if Life Coaching is for you, please call or email me to set up a complimentary, no obligation coaching session. This 30 minute phone call will give you a taste of life coaching with Eva-Marie and it will help you to decide how it could work for you.

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This month I had the privilege to speak to a group of young entrepreneurs and marketing students at Holy Name of Mary Secondary School. These women have inspired me with their energy, curiosity and insight. As I was touring their school I noticed an award plaque on the wall outside the school office. On the plaque is a quote from Mother Teresa. The quote reads:



How perfect for us to remember this during the holiday season. Let’s choose to do our actions with great love. Notice the effect that this shift has on you personally as well as those around you. Each of us can make a difference in this world, one loving act at a time.