If the holidays have you stressed out more than Santa himself on December 24th here are some tips you can use right now to be more in the moment and merry. At the end of the (holi) day remember that this time is for being around those we care about, doing something nice for them and maybe a stranger, and be appreciative for all of the blessings we have. Making sure to keep note of all of those blessings big and small daily is a huge way to get into any holiday spirit!
Take the high road. If you’re seriously trying to avoid conflict and drama this year, you’re probably already planning to steer clear of hot topics. We all have that one family member, however, who just can’t seem to help him or herself when it comes to controversial subjects. Are we supposed to just lie down and take it? In the name of all that is stress-free, yes! (It also really seems to drive these personality types crazy when you ignore their provocations.) If you find yourself on the receiving end of this person’s banter, change the subject. When in doubt, break out the board games! Your host will thank you. And if you’re the host and can predict problems before the day comes, be up front about a no politics (or whatever issue you predict will be an issue) rule from the get-go.
Make like Elsa and let go of expectations. It’s so easy to be disappointed this time of year. Blame it on pop culture, social media, or magical childhood memories, but we expect way too much during the holidays. Often, we are too busy trying to recreate something special that we can’t be present and enjoy whatever is actually happening. Not only that, but we also lose perspective. Will Thanksgiving really be a complete disaster if a specific dish isn’t on the table? Be flexible, and focus instead on everything you have to be grateful for this year.
Remember the less fortunate. Speaking of being grateful, take a hot second to think of those individuals with literally nothing to their name right now. Imagine everyone living in war zones or even the people lying in hospital beds this holiday season. Whether it’s in your own community or half a world away, there are people making do with much less. Count your blessings, if for nothing more than a perspective shift, but if you have the ability to give of your time, talent, or treasure, there’s no better time than now to do it.
Be intentional about self-care. It’s critical that you take time to decompress, before and after you walk into a stress-inducing situation. You can’t possibly run yourself ragged leading up to the main event and expect yourself to be healthy and happy on the big day. If you’re sick or snappy at the people you love, you’ll leave with a bad taste in your mouth about the experience. Remember that self-care isn’t just a mani-pedi; it’s therapy, it’s time set aside for spiritual practices, and it’s time in the gym or in nature. Eat your veggies, soak in Epsom salt, and phone a trusted friend. The more relaxed you are, the more you’ll actually enjoy the experience. Things get blown out of proportion when we’re full of unrelated anxiety.
Don’t go into debt over gifts. By now, we all know that charging up credit cards to try to impress others or prove our love is absurd. And even if it doesn’t dig you into a debt hole to splurge, is it necessary to spend your retirement savings on tons of plastic toys, or unethically and cheaply made products all in the name of the holiday season? Don’t let the hype suck you in! Giving your time and gifting people with experiences are way better options. Simply think twice before making your purchases, and perhaps ask yourself: will this cause me (or anyone else) stress later?
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