A Different Kind of Holiday Motivation
As the holidays approach, I’ve found myself reflecting on something that’s been sitting with me over the past few days — happiness, in all its forms.
Not the fleeting kind that comes from achievements or material wins, but the deep, full-hearted happiness that stays with you when life feels aligned.
And right now, that’s exactly how I feel.
When Your Heart Feels Full
I’ve had a fantastic week — a great mix of meaningful work, spending time with the boys at the races on Saturday, family time yesterday with Anita, and now looking forward to our family festivities over the holidays.
This morning, I said to Anita just how happy I feel. My heart genuinely feels full.
I’m happy with my team at work — not just professionally, but personally. I care deeply about them and their families. I’m incredibly grateful for my own family too. And as many of you know, I’m now a grandad — and there truly is no better feeling in the world.
When I shared all of this, Anita looked at me and said:
“Ryan, it’s because of the love and joy you bring to others.”
That stopped me in my tracks.
You Get What You Give
It got me thinking about how much has changed over the years.
Giving — whether that’s love, support, encouragement or positivity — didn’t always come naturally to me. Years ago, it was something I had to consciously practise. Over time, it became part of who I am.
And that’s the message I want to share today:
You get what you give.
You receive what you put out.
It’s the law of reciprocity — plain and simple.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the past 10, 15, even 20 years is this:
The more you give, the more you get.
Right now, I couldn’t be happier in my life — my health, my family, my friendships, my work, my purpose. Everything I’ve experienced has shaped me into a genuinely positive and content person.
Some people might think this sounds a bit “out there”, but the reality is simple:
- You create your own life
- You create your own luck
- You create your own happiness
Start With Gratitude and Work From the Inside Out
I don’t rely on anyone else for my happiness — I rely on myself.
And what truly makes me happy is giving:
- My time
- My energy
- My care
- My support
- My love
Not just to my family, but to my clients, my friends, and everyone I come into contact with. I want happiness to be contagious. If you spend time with me, I want you to feel uplifted, appreciated and positive.
A huge part of this comes down to gratitude.
My happiness today started with appreciating what I already had. Even when I didn’t have what others had, I focused on what was right in front of me. Whenever jealousy, insecurity or negativity crept in, I stopped and reminded myself of how fortunate I truly am.
As we head into the holidays, I encourage you to focus on yourself.
You are the most important person in your own life. If you don’t work on what’s happening inside, nothing on the outside will ever truly change.
I know you’re all wonderful people, and I feel incredibly privileged to be part of your lives — just as grateful that you’re part of mine.
Have a fantastic holiday, take care of yourselves, and thank you again.
Here’s to your success,
Ryan & Anita Thompson
