
December is a month of celebration, reflection, and connection. Around the world, people are lighting candles, exchanging gifts, sharing feasts, and honoring traditions. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, Bodhi Day, or any other beautiful holiday this month, this season unites us in spirit. The magic you feel in the air during the holidays is real. It’s the collective energy of many worldwide coming together to celebrate love, light, and hope. It’s a reminder that, despite our differences, we all share a deep desire for joy and connection.
As you celebrate, consider ways to share that magic with others. A small act of kindness—donating to a food drive, volunteering, or simply checking in on someone who might be lonely—can brighten someone else’s season. Giving back helps those in need and deepens your gratitude and fulfillment.
Remember to savor the moments that truly matter. Laugh, play, and enjoy the company of those around you. Whether it’s a lively holiday party or a quiet evening at home, these shared moments are the heart of the season.
This month, I’ve invited author Ella Herlihy to share tips on keeping the Magic of the holiday season and reducing the stress you typically feel. These tips include prioritizing your to-do list, setting boundaries, and focusing less on gifts and more on family experiences and serving others. I’m so excited about sharing her with you, and I’ve already invited her to return in 2025 when her book Raising Untitled Kids is published!
Don’t miss our interview with Marci Shimoff, the New York Times bestselling author, on Christmas Eve. She will share tips to raise your vibration so you can live with more happiness, joy, and miracles all year! Marci’s program, Living in the Miracle Zone, will begin in January, so watch for your invitation over the holiday. I’ve taken this program along with thousands of others worldwide, and it’s magnificent!
Thank you for being part of this global Smart Women Community. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and love, and may we all carry this spirit of celebration into the new year. Happy Holidays!

Katana Abbott, CFP®, is a Midlife Millionaires® Coach and Certified Social Security Claiming Specialist, and the host of Smart Women Talk. For over 35 years, Katana has helped Baby Boomers plan for retirement, including how to create lifetime income, how to optimize their Social Security benefits, launch an encore career, and prepare for long-term care. She has written several books, created a financial literacy course, and is a popular speaker. Katana has been honored by NAWBO as one of Detroit’s Top 10 Businesswomen, receiving the Breakthrough Award. To download her new retirement guide, Three Smart Strategies to Maximize Your Retirement Income, visit www.katanaabbott.com
