Last week, we discussed five ways to have a stress-free holiday season. Let’s review five other ways to make the holidays more enjoyable and less stressful:
6. Stay Present
In all the rush of things holidays, it’s easy to lose sight of the true meaning of the holidays. Remind yourself that this season is about connection. Make an effort to stay present and savor the little moments. A great way to stay present is by starting a gratitude journal. Set aside a few moments each day to reflect and document positive moments, big or small.
7. Simplify Holiday Traditions
Sometimes, less is more. Traditions are lovely but can easily become burdensome if they involve too many steps, like elaborate meals or complex decorations. Simplify your rituals by focusing on what really matters to you and your family. You may also want to consider starting new traditions that don’t require much time or money, such as a family movie night, a holiday game, or a walk in the park.
8. Know When to Step Back
It is ABSOLUTELY okay to take a step back if the holidays start to feel like a chore. If you’re hosting and feeling overwhelmed, scaling back an event is perfectly fine. Don’t feel the need to meet everyone’s expectations—your peace of mind is more important. Also, remember that enlisting help from other guests is a great way to get others invested and make your workload more manageable.
9. Embrace Imperfection
Remember, the holidays don’t have to be perfect! Embrace the imperfections—burnt cookies, forgotten decorations, or mismatched holiday sweaters can provide memories for years to come…or at least some good laughs.
10. Reflect and Recharge After the Holidays
Once the holiday season is over, take some time to rest and recharge. Recall memories made and acknowledge the effort you put into making the holidays enjoyable. Take another glance through the holiday cards you received. Revisit fond memories as you put away decorations with special meaning.
The holidays are a time to celebrate, connect, and enjoy special moments, but they don’t have to come with a side of stress. Take care of yourself, enjoy the journey, and remember: sometimes the best memories are the simplest ones.
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