The holidays are here—a time for joy, connection, and a million distractions. Between the bustle of planning, gift-giving, and endless to-do lists, it's easy to lose sight of what this season is truly about.
But what if this year, with just one question, you could deepen your relationships and create moments of connection that last far beyond December?
Here’s the Question
“What was one high and one low from this past year?” Simple, right? But this one question, asked around a holiday meal or during a quiet moment, has the power to shift the tone of the entire season. It invites vulnerability, sparks meaningful conversation, and reminds us that relationships are built in moments of truly seeing and hearing each other.
The Research Behind Connection
Studies show that quality relationships—not quantity—are the cornerstone of happiness and well-being. According to Harvard's 80-year Study of Adult Development, the single most consistent predictor of a fulfilling life is the strength of our relationships. Deep connections reduce stress, improve physical health, and even increase longevity.
Yet, in a world of hurried conversations and surface-level exchanges, meaningful connection often feels like a lost art. The holidays, however, provide a unique opportunity to slow down and focus on what truly matters.
Generosity doesn't have to involve money or material gifts; in fact, the most valuable things we can give are our attention, time, and love. As Dr. Brené Brown writes, “Connection is why we're here. It's what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.”
Three Ways to Create a More Meaningful Holiday Season
Start with “Hi-Low”
Around a table, ask each person to share their “high and low” of the year. Encourage everyone to listen deeply without interrupting or rushing to respond. Invite all who wish, to follow up with curious, open-ended questions like, “What made that moment so meaningful for you?” or “How did you navigate that challenge?”Create Margin in Your Schedule
Instead of packing your calendar with activities, leave intentional space for rest and spontaneous connection. When you're less rushed, you're more present, and presence is one of the greatest gifts you can offer.Be Generous Without Spending a Penny
Generosity doesn't have to cost money. Practice generosity by offering your full attention, expressing gratitude, or lending a listening ear. Acts of kindness, like helping with a chore or task or simply being available, can have a profound impact..
The Heart of the Season
From ancient traditions to modern holiday tales, one theme endures: love and compassion. Whether it's through mythological stories of giving or the real-life gestures of kindness we see during this time of year, the holidays remind us of our shared humanity. Love, at its core, is about giving of ourselves for the benefit of another—without losing sight of our own boundaries and needs.
This season, we challenge you to slow down, ask meaningful questions, and be generous with your listening time and presence. Let's make this a holiday to remember—not because of the gifts we give, but because of the love we show.
Until next week,
Jonathan Penner | Founder & Exec Dir. of LifeApp
Resources To Dig Deeper
Book
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead
Every day we experience the uncertainty, risks, and emotional exposure that define what it means to be vulnerable or to dare greatly. Based on twelve years of pioneering research, Brené Brown PhD, LMSW, dispels the cultural myth that vulnerability is weakness and argues that it is, in truth, our most accurate measure of courage.
-Brené Brown
Podcast
All My Love
A song about love, dedication, and devotion.
-Coldplay with Dick van Dyke