Christmas is in full swing now. Almost every house on our street has Christmas lights up. Though I love the atmosphere those lights produce at night, I worry about the “gray-hair” guys putting up those lights on ladders. I understand it. They are fulfilling traditions, which can be a burden and a joy. Recently, my youngest granddaughter told me how much she loves Christmas and especially the traditions. Then she asked if I would continue the Christmas ornaments put on the plates at the formal Christmas Eve dinner I usually host. I replied it was unlikely, as we would be staying in a motel by Christmas. We have been waiting 3 months for our hardwood floors to be replaced after water damage. When I saw her crestfallen face, I knew I would add finding personalized ornaments to my “to-do” list.
We love traditions for their predictability, especially during chaotic times. However, fitting those traditions in can make Christmas chaotic, no matter how hard we try. That brings me to Hallmark Movies.
Recently, I took a class on writing scripts for Christmas movies. There has been a growing market since they are now featured at Hallmark, Lifetime, Up TV, and various cable stations. I am not talking about high-concept Christmas movies you would see at the movie theater, but like those you would see on Hallmark. This type of movie appeals to young and old, any gender and they have branched out to represent the diversity within the USA.
To sell your script, you must follow industry standards using a plot formula, hit key themes—love, forgiveness, second chances, etc., and create tension by giving the protagonist a choice between two opposing touch decisions. And, of course, the all-important must-have element—a satisfying, happy end!
So, there is the proof. We crave for everything to work out in the end. Even if that doesn’t appear to happen in our lives, we want to believe in that possibility. Like in a Hallmark movie plot, the protagonist will have internal and external obstacles to overcome. If you face obstacles and want a more satisfying ending to a current dilemma, here are a few suggestions:
- Honest Self-Reflection: Take time to understand your feelings and desires.
- Identify Core Values: Determine what matters to you and align your choices.
- Pros and Con List: After listing these, visualize the outcome of your choice.
- Set Clear Goals: Focus on short and long-term goals to achieve your objective.
- Prioritize: Which choice is more important for your future at this moment?
- Be Kind to Yourself: It’s okay to struggle with choices.
- Evaluate and Adjust: Reflect on the outcome and adjust your path when needed.
- Seek Guidance: A therapist or coach can provide tools to navigate obstacles.
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” ~ Winston S Churchill