Holidays are meant to be a joyful time celebrating with family and friends, enjoying time off from work, and indulging in delicious meals. That said, it is also easy to get overwhelmed and anxious as you try to keep up with multiple demands on your personal, family and work life.
Try these sanity savers to help you find the right balance so you can focus on making positive memories this holiday season:
- Keep it simple (and be realistic): Perfection is overrated. Don’t put pressure on yourself by committing to every party or making your own party a gala event. Focus on what makes the holidays special for you.
- Set aside differences: Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don’t live up to all of your expectations. Set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion.
- Stick to a budget: Before you start shopping for gifts, food, and decorations, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Don’t try to buy happiness with excessive gifts or lavish meals.
- Plan ahead: Identify possible challenges that can trigger stress and develop an action plan to feel prepared to deal with them. Set specific days for shopping, cooking, traveling, visiting friends, and other activities.
- Keep healthy habits: Don’t let the holidays become a free- for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt. Get plenty of sleep and make as much time for exercise as you can.
- Take a breather: Pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Spend a little time by yourself if you can. Meditate, do some relaxation breathing, or go for a short walk.
- Control the controllable: As families change and grow, traditions often do as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones and finding new ways to celebrate together.
Take steps to prevent stress and find peace and happiness this holiday season.
