‘Tis the season to be jolly, right? Not for everyone.
While heart-warming and exciting, holiday seasons often come hand-in-hand with stress and overwhelming expectations. Think about it, not only do we have to consider a budget, we have to coordinate a time to meet, choose who’s hosting this year and a menu, shopping, whose place we celebrating, who’s bringing what, travel plans, dealing with difficult relatives, and, etc. Whew! Just writing about it feels like I’m literally working a part-time job. Amidst the decorations and celebrations, it’s crucial to prioritize your good spirit and sound mind. We can achieve this by setting realistic expectations and establishing boundaries. So, here are a few tips to help you navigate common holiday stressors and safeguard your well-being:
1. Realistic Expectations
Set achievable goals for yourself during the holidays. Understand that perfection is not the goal, and it’s okay if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Be realistic about your time, energy, and resources, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
2. Prioritize Self-Care
Amidst the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to prioritize self-care. Allocate time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s a quiet moment with a book, movie, brisk walk, or a warm bath. Taking care of your well-being is essential for managing stress. You’d be surprised how short breaks in between your decorating, planning, or cooking will provide more energy to complete your tasks.
3. Establish Boundaries
Clearly communicate your boundaries to friends and family. It’s okay to say ‘no’ if you feel overwhelmed by social obligations or additional responsibilities. Just like you always have that one deviled egg that just didn’t make the cut, you always have that one friend or family member who has new ideas or recommendations that would require more time and effort than you have to spare. So setting boundaries helps you manage your time and energy effectively, preventing burnout.
4. Financial Awareness
Financial strain can contribute significantly to holiday stress. Create a budget and stick to it. Consider alternative, meaningful gifts that don’t necessarily break the bank. Remember, the essence of the season is not measured by the cost of presents, but rather the thought and sentimental value.
5. Embrace Imperfections
Accept that not everything will go perfectly, and that’s perfectly fine. Whether it’s burnt cookies or a delayed flight, try to embrace imperfections with a sense of humor. I remember when my husband used to burn something he prepared, he’d say, “oh, that’s not burnt, it’s just smoked a little, and that’s the way it is supposed to be!” And we would just laugh while making our way to the trash. So focusing on the positive and literally making a joke out of it, rather than fixating on the negatives can alleviate stress and really set the tone for jovial and fun-filled holiday celebration.
6. Social Comparison
Avoid falling into the trap of social comparison. Social media can sometimes paint an unrealistic picture of others’ lives. Remember that everyone faces challenges, and what’s showcased online is often a curated version. Focus on your own journey and celebrate your unique experiences.
7. Connect with Loved Ones
While the holidays can be stressful, they also offer an opportunity to connect with loved ones and catch up on their new or future endeavors and share some of our funniest memories and memorable moments. Be sure to prioritize quality time over quantity, and focus on creating new and meaningful memories. Engage in activities that foster a sense of togetherness and joy, such as boardgames, karaoke, trivia, and etc. another good idea is to bring a tripod with a ring light so everyone can take pictures during the holidays. My daughter did this for my father-in-law‘s 89th birthday party. Genius idea! It was a great way to capture everyone who came by to visit and have a nice photo album to capture the moments as well.
8. Seek Support
If you find yourself struggling, don’t hesitate to seek support. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or a mental health professional, expressing your feelings can be immensely beneficial. You’re not alone in feeling stressed during the holidays.
By setting realistic expectations, prioritizing self-care, and establishing boundaries, you can navigate the holiday season with greater ease and protect your mental health. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being, and the true spirit of the holidays lies in moments of joy, gratitude, and connection.
Happy Holidays!