The frenzied pace of the holidays can be daunting. Whether it be last minute shopping, packing up to visit relatives, or cleaning the house so they can stay with you…this time of year sends our minds into overdrive. Let’s have more fun this Christmas. Really! What are some key ways to ease the tension and increase the jolly? Here are three suggestions:
Discover The Moment
We step out of our comfort zone and do twice as much as normal in preparation for the big event. While its important to get our plans together, remember to take a step back and rejoin the present. Even if its only for a few seconds. Take a deep breath in, and count 1……2……3. Then, exhale 1……2……3…..4……5…..6. Afterwards, look around and find one beautiful thing nearby. It could be the way the light reflects off a shoe, the color of the cashier’s eyes, or the warm smile of grandmother as she spots the perfect gift.
Prioritize
Many of us wish we could do more, especially this time of year. Maybe you’d like to bake a sugar cookies for a party of 50 or dust off your drill bits and craft a dollhouse for a little one. Just keep in mind the time, energy, and expense that will go into each present or party plan that is dancing around in your mind. Santa isn’t that only one who needs a list. Sit down and list all of your holiday plans and gift ideas. Then, spend at least an hour deciding which are the top priorities. Realize that you are only human, and try to settle on a list that is just a little less than what you believe is possible (this will leave some margin for error).
Accept Them As They Are
Aunt Mary will ask you why you haven’t settled down yet. Uncle Frank will make it a point to tell you that tattoos are a waste of money. No matter how much you love your family, there will always be some degree of discomfort at holiday gatherings. Just remind yourself that you do love them. And they are not going to be around forever. So smile, drink some egg nog, and know that prying questions and strong opinions are sometimes ways that people show they care.