It is the gobble, gobble, turkey wobble; HO, HO, HOing, the most wonderful time of the year. So, why do we find ourselves in stomach-flipping, anxiety-rising, hand-wringing, stress-filling moments?
I contemplated the holiday road ahead as I watched the Halloween items quickly being replaced with jingle bells, holly wreaths, and Christmas wrapping paper and ribbon. For those of us who know, we are on the verge of a whirlwind of days with calendar-filled lists of events and obligations we can’t possibly achieve, even though we think we can. And all the while, there is an overwhelming pressure to maintain a joyful, celebratory, memory-making mentality through it all. Not to forget the Social Media pages that remind us daily of how far behind we are in comparison to our 1,000-plus friends who have already decorated.
Yes – the holidays are here!
But could it possibly be different this year? With a few suggestions and a little effort, you might just create the holiday atmosphere you have longed to have.
- Don’t get ahead of yourself. Thanksgiving comes before Christmas. Gratitude goes a long way. Take the time to be truly thankful for all that you have; for the people in your lives; for the food on your table; and for every moment of fun. If there are family members you do not enjoy, set in your mind that it is one day. Take the higher road. Discuss things you both agree on – “Grandma’s china is beautiful! The weather is starting to get cold. Do you think we’ll have snow?” If the conversation turns to something unpleasant simply say, “Let’s enjoy the day! Can I grab you some iced tea?”
- Choose what is essential. Quality not quantity. Sit down with yourself or your family and determine one thing each person wants to do. Make that a priority. Say no to the things that interfere. Write it down so everyone understands. Remember, a family is a team. If one person chooses the Polar Express – everyone goes – even a 15-year-old brother.
- Limit screens. Not just for children or grandchildren – you too! Put away your cell phones – get off of social media a few days a week. You need to realize how much time is consumed on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. It is a good practice for everyone in the family. Video games take time away from the family. Make a decision this season will be spent together – not in front of screens. Be the best example of this practice!
- Be realistic about gifts. For some people, the economy has hit hard. If you know family members are struggling or if you are struggling think outside of the box. Suggest TIME as a gift. You could babysit for your daughter’s children as a gift! A day in the park with the family is always a wonderful gift. Take in a ballgame. Make special gifts. The reality is, if you asked your son what you gave him for Christmas last year, he probably won’t remember. But if this year, the two of you go and do something together, he’ll always remember it. Try it!
- Contemplate the BIGGER picture. Thanksgiving marks a moment in time when we show our gratitude. Christmas reflects generosity and inclusion. When anxiety starts to build; when your stomach feels in knots; when time seems to run away with you; stop and remember the basic, simple reason you are celebrating. Take 10 deep breaths. And start over with number 1 on our list.
Every day that passes is one less day you have. Approach life with a feeling of joy and blessing. Sometimes it is difficult to celebrate. When it is, reflect on the good memories, tuck away the sad memories, breathe in the good air, and give yourself a much-needed hug.
