When I began writing this weekly blog, it was for my sales team. We'd just experienced the 911 disaster, and we were all struggling. I hoped to share a positive, uplifting sales message to get them going each Monday morning.

Needless to say, the theme has morphed.  Today, rather than being sales-focused, I offer some immutable laws of the universe and some life hacks, hoping to turn you on to something new or remind you of something you may have set aside.

When I hit the keyboard, I aim to write something that resonates with you. Some of you will respond regularly to let me know whether you agree or disagree. Some will offer similar experiences to endorse a particular point of view I've shared. Sometimes, I get a note saying how the message inspired you or that you shared it with your kids, friends, or coworkers, and I know I've hit the mark with you.

For me, this time of year is more about gratitude than Thanksgiving is. During the holidays and right into the new year, I look back at the previous year. It doesn't matter what the past year has rendered; I focus on the enormous blessing of being here now and being able to look back at all—and to have good things to look back upon. From that platform, I begin to plan for the new year.

Because even in years when my income fell off, my business was in a downturn, someone died (or several someone's died), or there was sickness or estrangement, I could still see how blessed I was.

When I look back on years that held horrible events like Sandy Hook or the devastation of wars, I choose to believe that tomorrow will be better than today, and despite the tragedies, I know that we all have a lot to be thankful for.

If you're reading this, you have a computer, smartphone, or tablet. You aren't living on the street, and you aren't wondering where your next meal will come from. You’re fortunate. People are crying out for what we take for granted.

I hope this isn't preachy.

This is an incredible time to think about others. I wish we would do that all year, but now is a great time to get outside ourselves and see where we can help. Yes, my friends, it's time to be very selfish.

I believe in the law of attraction and Karma.

Picture Santa—just for a moment. Does he look happy? Of course, he does. And why is that? Because he gives. Santa's secret to happiness is giving.

William James, the father of American psychology, said, "If I were beginning to suffer a nervous breakdown, the first thing I'd do is leave my home and go across to the poor side of town and find someone to help."

He's right.  The best way to feel better about yourself is to forget about yourself. Helping others, it turns out, is pretty selfish.  And, as if to supersize your effort, Karma will deliver back more than you could ever give.

So be like Santa. Find folks to give to. I promise you'll feel great by making others feel great and that the love you give will return to you.

Happy Holidays