If you’re anything like me, by now you’re probably saying “why the hell even wrap the gift if it’s only going to be opened again?” And then you throw the fucker in a bag topped off with some colorful paper — pop on a bow — and bingo! All done. Aside from having zero skill or patience with wrapping presents, presentation is something to think about. Just not in the way you think.
When me, my brother and sister would wake up on Christmas morning, we’d race into the living room to get an eyeful. Sitting strategically about the room were action figures, forts, and an assortment of other toys for which we asked. All were set up and displayed nicely. My mother and father had been up half the night assembling, screwing (you know what I mean), and snapping pieces into place. The end result was a magical christmas for three kids. Now, let’s talk about your presentation. And, I’m not talking gift wrap.
Ever notice that people are smiling more around the holidays (except on the goddamn freeway because a few morons still haven’t learned how to drive) and seem a bit more cheerful? It’s noticeable because it’s not something you see every day. Most days, we’re walking through life with a pout and maybe an outfit equally as blah. Our hair has had better days. Our fingernails could probably use attention and the ear hair that could be braided on some people could use a trimming or a weed whacking.
And then there’s everything on the inside that’s overlooked. We treat our insides like that junk-filled closet with the door closed so no one sees it. After all, it’s hidden — right? Wrong. As I’ve said before, whatever is going on inside us is what we’re shining out to the world. You’re like a movie projector and anyone you come into contact with can see what’s showing on your screen.
It’s somewhat understandable. We’re too wrapped-up in our daily lives to devote the proper attention to ourselves. But, what if you’re daily life could improve with just a little inner and outer attention when it comes to you? For the next week, wake up a little bit earlier and spend some time meditating, reflecting and smile practicing. Listen to some upbeat music to put some perk in your step. Iron that wrinkled shirt. Do something different with your hair. At the end of the week, see how many comments you collect on your presentation. Think of it this way — by starting now, you’ll already be in full-swing come the new year and the new you!
