It’s hard to believe that in just a week and a half, November will be here. I’m the last person to wish Fall away—the colorful splendor of a New England autumn, with its brisk, golden afternoons, never ceases to amaze me. I often find myself pausing in genuine wonder, taking in the beauty of it all on my countless daily drives to high school activities. Maybe it’s because I’ve been endlessly talking about the holidays with All Is Calm..ish, but I’m starting to feel that seasonal shift already. Do you?

Connection Over Perfection

Now is actually the perfect moment to pause and set the tone for what’s ahead. Before the invitations, expectations, and to-do lists start to multiply, we have the chance to decide how we want this season to feel. A calmer, more joyful holiday doesn’t just happen—it begins now, with intention and a few small shifts that make space for peace.

In my new book, you will hear the phrase “connection over perfection.” It is the first idea I am asking you to think about for several important reasons. 

At the end of the holidays, I’ve often felt disconnected from my relationships because, in the rush of doing, I forgot the simple act of being—being present, being engaged, being truly connected. I decided a few years ago that this was not how I wanted to experience the holidays any longer and made some changes that started with an intention. 

These days, I gather with a smaller circle of friends rather than throwing a big holiday party, enjoy winter walks with loved ones, and create slower, cozier moments at home with family movie nights and baking together. This has helped me to be more present and choose that connection over perfection. 

Your idea of a beautiful holiday may look very different, but I encourage you to pause and consider what would make it truly meaningful for you… and at the very least CALMish. And if you’re unsure, here’s some fascinating research that might inspire you to carve out more time with friends…👇🏽

Strong Relationships Slow The Aging Process

An October 5th, Cornell University published a new study in the journal Brain, Behavior and Immunity that revealed that people with “richer, more sustained” friendships showed a younger biological age and lower rates of inflammation. This is also true for the cumulative effect of social supports—parental warmth, childhood friendships, community involvement, and religious support in adulthood all slow the biological processes of aging. 

Yet again more evidence that it is worth prioritizing—as best as possible—the important relationships in your life. 

For more on the methodology, go here.

I Would LOVE to Meet YOU!

I love meeting you in person, so please join us at one of our in-person events!

Generous Life New York Presents
All is Calm-ish: Book Launch with Niro Feliciano

November 18th, 2025 | 6:30pm | The 52nd Street Project New York, NY

Experience an evening of insight, laughter, and honest conversation as we celebrate the launch of All is Calm-ish. The night will feature a fireside-style conversation, interactive discussion, and reflections designed to help us enter the holidays more present and peaceful… even when life feels only “calm-ish.”

Please RSVP here to attend!

Bedford Books:
Thursday, November 20th
Bedford, NY

One of my new favorite bookstores in the area, Bedford Books is a place you’ll instantly fall in love with. I hope you’ll join Fran Hauser, the author and owner, and me for a chat about all things holiday. Take a little time for yourself and kick off the season with a bit more calm(ish).

Ridgefield Playhouse:
Wednesday, December 3rd
7:00 pm

Join us for a night of a little calm and a lot of JOY!
We’re kicking off the season with live holiday music, laughter from comedian Tim Washer, and a festive chat with me and a special guest. You won’t want to miss this celebration of connection, community, and cheer.

Stay tuned for ticket information — and know that your presence makes a difference! All proceeds will support The Community Table, helping local families facing food insecurity.

Gratitude Snapshots

Wishing you every good thing this week!

In Case You Missed It

Why 3 Good Things?

Wellness isn’t one big thing—it’s three good things, or two good things, or five. It’s noticing the gifts of the life we have.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ve probably heard me talk about “3 Good Things.” It’s the question I often ask my kids and one of my favorite gratitude practices.

Research shows that identifying three good things each day can actually rewire your brain from negativity to optimism in just 30 days. Follow along for my 3GT each week! And send me yours! I want to hear from you.