Ivey 2025 Digital Holiday Gift Basket
“As we wrap up another incredible year of learning, growth, and connection, we want to thank you for being part of the Ivey Executive Education community. This digital gift basket is a small way to show our appreciation — curated by our team with insights, inspiration, and a few surprises to carry into the new year. Here’s to continued growth and bold leadership in 2026!”
Warm wishes,
Bryan Benjamin
Executive Director, Ivey Executive Education
Our Favourite Holiday and Winter Traditions
This season means something a little different to everyone, but one thing we all share is the desire to slow down, connect, and make space for the moments that matter. The traditions may vary, but the spirit behind them is the same: warmth, togetherness, and finding joy in the season in whatever way feels right. We asked the Ivey Executive Education team for suggestions on how they like to unwind and celebrate the season.
Some of us love the simple magic of decorating our homes with lights, candles, or seasonal décor. It doesn't need to be tied to any one holiday, just celebrating the feeling of winter settling in. Others make it a tradition to head out for evening walks or drives to admire neighbourhood displays, from classic lights to creative front-yard setups that brighten the darker days.
Food is a big part of our team’s traditions, too. Cookie-baking days, treat swaps, and sharing favourite dishes from our cultural backgrounds all make an appearance this time of year. A few of us swear by gathering friends or family for a board-game night, a movie marathon, or a “winter feast” that brings everyone together, no matter what they celebrate.
For those who enjoy time outdoors, the season offers its own rituals: skating on a local rink, snowshoeing through a quiet trail, or simply standing by the window with a warm drink to watch the first snowfall drift down.
Giving back is another tradition that anchors the season. Volunteering, supporting a local charity, or performing small acts of kindness helps ground the busy weeks in a sense of purpose and gratitude.
And, of course, some traditions are all about reflection — lighting candles to mark the long evenings, journaling to close out the year, or taking a quiet moment to set intentions for the one ahead.
No matter the activity, the heart of the season is the same: finding connection, comfort, and a bit of joy in the colder months. Whether your traditions are familiar or newly created, big gatherings or small rituals, we hope this season brings warmth in whatever way you celebrate.
Staff Picks: Recipes
A few of our team’s favourite winter treats to inspire something sweet, simple, and cozy in your kitchen.
Staff Picks: Music
Seasonal sounds and easy-listening favourites to set the mood for quieter winter days.
Staff Picks: Podcasts
Thought-provoking podcasts our team turns to for learning, unwinding, or getting inspired.
At-Home Adventures
A mix of simple indoor and outdoor activities to help you relax, learn, and have a little fun this season.
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Try a winter lights walk: Bundle up and take a slow stroll through your neighbourhood to enjoy the lights, colours, and quiet of the season.
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Host a game or puzzle night: Pull out a board game, a deck of cards, or a half-finished puzzle and make an evening of it.
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Create a cozy reading nook: Rearrange a chair, grab a blanket, and set up a quiet corner just for you.
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Search for a new free playlist: Try “winter jazz,” “acoustic snowfall,” or “ambient forest” on YouTube for an instant mood shift.
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Have a kitchen experiment night: Invent a winter drink or snack using whatever you already have on hand.
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Try a reflection ritual: Light a candle, set a timer for 10 minutes, and answer one of the seasonal questions included in this guide.
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Take a winter photo walk: Capture patterns in snow, shadows, trees, or reflections — no editing needed.
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Make a gratitude list: Write down five things from this year that brought you joy, clarity, or growth.
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Rediscover an old hobby: Knit, sketch, write, bake, build something, or dust off that project you’ve been meaning to revisit.
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Do a “winter reset” hour: Tidy one drawer, organize a shelf, or refresh one small space at home.
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Try stargazing on a clear night: Winter skies are crisp and bright — look for Orion, Taurus, or the Pleiades.
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Create your own “screen-free hour”: Turn off everything, light a candle or lamp, and let the quiet do its thing.
Seasonal Reflection Questions
Take a moment to pause and reflect with a few gentle questions for closing out the year.
What is one thing you’re proud of from this year?
What is one thing you learned about yourself this year?
What is one intention you want to set for next year?
Learning Over the Break
A handful of short, accessible resources to spark fresh thinking as you head into the new year.
How to Amplify Your Self-Awareness and EQ
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Developing Competitive Edge with AI
In conversation with Christian Dippel, we explore what it means for leaders to think critically and act decisively around AI.
Introducing the Sales Reframed Podcast
Sales Reframed, featuring Eric Janssen, shows how the skills of selling are really the skills of navigating life.
Warming Winter Hearth
Set the scene with a crackling virtual fireplace — instant warmth for workdays or winding down.
