Okay Cliquers. It’s time to come clean. Who’s been burning the candle at both ends? Maybe running about serving the needs and wants of others, without thinking about yourself? Christmas is the season of giving, and yet we want you to make absolutely certain that you don’t give all of your energy away.

It’s the default position for many women to put the needs of others first, especially loved ones, and although we know it feels natural to nurture, we want you to be aware of how that feels for you. If you feel energised and joyful after looking after those around you: go for it. If however, you feel a bit drained, or even resentful, we want to give you permission right now to do what Vanilla Ice says: Stop, collaborate and listen.

Stop: For just a moment, stop getting caught up in the busy, and listen to your own heart. Is this action something that you actually want to do, or one that comes from the place of “have to”?

Collaborate: Look around. Is there someone you could delegate to, or work with to help ease the load? Perhaps you could do a swap with another Mum for the school run, or maybe you could pay someone to do your most unloved task (hello Mr.BBQ Cleaner).

Listen: You know you. And you already know what to do. This is the time to listen to your instincts. To take the time to check in with yourself, and check out of what isn’t serving you.

Remember, the true power of us women resides in our ability to receive. Being open and willing to receive help, gifts and yes, even pleasure, is where it’s at for us.

So this week let’s be like Vanilla. Let’s put our rag-tops down so our hair can blow. Do something that blows your hair back, and stop doing the things that make it limp.

…Ice, ice baby…