As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same.
Donald Westlake
The holiday season is officially upon us.
How you doing so far?
If the thought of navigating the remainder of this year fills you with overwhelm (or even dread), read on.
Awhile back, we shared our top tips for managing holiday stress.
Today we’re sharing 5 (more) ways you can prepare for the holidays and enjoy emotional wellness all season long:
1. Embrace “No” as you prepare for the holidays
As Anne Lamott said, “No is a complete sentence.” And yet, once the holiday chaos is underway, it’s easy to forget that we have the option to decline: Unnecessary plans, obligations, spending, and so on. We often worry that our “no” will be received as rejection. But, like so many things in life, it’s all in the delivery.
TRY THIS:
Practice saying no with kindness.
2. Revisit your parenting boundaries
This might seem like an odd time of year to think about putting up walls between you and your children. But, healthy boundaries are a vital part of enjoying good emotional wellness throughout the holiday season. From celebrations to traditions to gift giving and receiving, it’s important that you know where you stand, and that you communicate this clearly to your children. (No matter their ages!)
TRY THIS:
Review your parenting boundaries. (Kids all grown up? That goes for you, too!)
3. Uncover hidden reasons to be grateful
It’s easy enough to lose sight of how rich we are in belongings, experiences, and relationships. It can be especially challenging to take note of reasons to be thankful amid life’s struggles. But sharpening your ability to experience gratitude even in the hard times will serve you well, no matter the time of year.
TRY THIS:
Cultivate gratitude as you prepare for the holidays.
4. Plan ahead for time off
In a perfect world, we could all just disappear into the holiday season without a care for the responsibilities awaiting us when we return! In reality, however, this approach means serious overwhelm in the new year. By taking some time to plan ahead, you’ll help your family return to work, school, and regular routines feeling refreshed and ready.
TRY THIS:
Plan your holiday break ahead of time.
5. Create space as you prepare for the holidays
As in, space in your home AND in your calendar. Even the most careful holiday planning doesn’t change this truth: If you don’t have space to actually execute your plan, it won’t happen.
TRY THIS:
Tidy up as you prepare for the holidays.
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
Holiday struggles: 6 things to remember
Holiday survival guide: 10 wellness tips
Holiday eating and boundaries
Could you use some support as you prepare for the holidays?