In all honesty I haven’t been feeling that great lately. So, I’ve been taking some time for myself, curling up with a good…. you thought I was going to say book. I probably should be reading. That would be the intellectual thing to do. But no, I was going to say curling up with a good Hallmark movie. This is controversial, I know. Everyone has their opinions about these movies; they’re corny, mushy and downright silly. And don’t forget predictable. But some people love them! As with any movie or television show, you have to suspend disbelief and just go with it. I am drawn to them mostly because of the warm and cozy feelings you immediately get from the music, the scenery, and the small towns featured in almost every one. But surprisingly, or maybe not, I’ve come to realize there are lessons to be learned from these cinematic treasures.

Things Aren’t Always What They Seem; Inhale, Exhale, and Figure It Out

Inevitably there’s a mix up in a Hallmark movie. Miscommunication leads to a misunderstanding, feelings get hurt and hopes and dreams are dashed. Conclusions are drawn from situations that may or may not tell the whole story. How many times have we read a text or an email and made assumptions based on the tone or presumed intent of the message? The tendency is to get upset, stew about it, and waste our energy worrying about it. Not in a Hallmark movie. Usually the characters find a way to confide in a friend in a kind and gentle way, and calmly work out the situation. No anger, no animosity, and certainly no yelling. 

Don’t Ever Underestimate the Power of Hot Chocolate

People want to be seen, heard, and understood. Empathy and compassion are always evident in a Hallmark movie. And if words don’t suffice, you can count one of the characters to offer a piping hot chocolate filled to the brim, complete with a peppermint stick and topped with whipped cream and sprinkles, or a pumpkin latte, herbal tea, and my personal favorite, a cupcake, a muffin or a slice of pie. The point is that just sitting down with someone, sharing a drink or a sweet treat, and allowing them the opportunity to vent, will prove to be invaluable for you both.

You Don’t Have to Go It Alone

How many Hallmark movies have you watched where the entire town, the whole office or every member of the team comes together to fix a problem and make something extraordinary happen? Every single one of them. Sometimes when things are headed south, we tend to isolate ourselves and take on burdens and responsibilities that no one should bear alone. Don’t be a hero. We will all be on a sinking ship at one point in our lives; it would be senseless not to ask for a lifeboat. 

Now I’m not naive or foolish to think that life is like one of these movies. We all have stuff that we are carrying around that can make things difficult. But at least we can try to incorporate these lessons into our own lives. As the holidays approach, let’s soften our responses, curb our selfishness, and make a concerted effort to embrace that wholesomeness and kindheartedness that only Hallmark can deliver.