I saw a meme online last week that made me laugh out loud.  It said, “It’s time to switch from my everyday anxiety to my fancy Christmas anxiety.”  Why is it that the “most wonderful time of the year” brings with it so much added stress?  The holidays can often leave us feeling depleted—emotionally, physically, financially, and mentally.  While there is a lot of gathering of friends and family, sometimes this togetherness can re-open old wounds, or leave us wanting in these important relationships, or lack thereof.  So, how can we find a little more peace, a little more time to reflect, and a little more joy this time of year amidst the chaos?  Here are a few suggestions: 

• Be intentional.  If you’re like me, around this time of year, you find yourself madly throwing things into your shopping or grocery cart.  One last gift, one more meal to plan or host…you’ve been there.  Things can very quickly begin to feel out of control.  Slow the pace down by planning ahead.  Not only will this save you time, but it will save you money (which are both things we could all use a little more of this time of year!).  

• Pick a few, favorite traditions and let the others go.  As my kids have gotten older, I have found myself rigidly clinging to traditions that they have long outgrown because, well, they’re traditions!  Don’t be afraid to change things up and simplify as needed.     

• Lower your expectations—of yourself and others.  There are so many expectations that surround the holidays.  From gift giving to social functions, there can be a lot of pressure!  I find that taking time away from social media during stressful times can be helpful.  It frees up our time and shuts down the temptation to play the comparison game—no one comes out feeling like a winner in this game.   

• Set boundaries for yourself.  Too many parties for your taste?  Too many gift exchanges?  Feeing forced to spend time with toxic people?  It’s okay to opt out.  For the longest time, my husband and I would rush our kids through Christmas morning so that we could start making family visits.  We found that by the end of the day, the children were tired and grumpy and so were we!  We now invite family to drop by our house if they would like, but we have let everyone know that we stay home on Christmas.  Give yourself permission to say, “No, thanks.”   

Hopefully these simple tips will help you enjoy this wonderful (and crazy) time of year.  As you look ahead into the New Year, if there are relationships that you want to work on, parts of yourself you are ready to change, bad habits you are ready to leave behind, give us a call.  We would love to help you become a happier and healthier you this next year.  Happy holidays!