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Yes the holidays are fun, but for me it is one of the hardest time of year. Everything gets super busy, and it is nearing the end of the year which leaves me reflecting on what might not have been the best year. It’s also my birthday, which doesn’t help things, and it just all around makes my anxiety rise up and brings my mood go all the way down.
Because of this, I’ve come up with a couple of tips and tricks on how to survive the holidays. These are both for any of you guys who feel the same as I do this time of year, but also a reminder to me that I can find ways to make the season a little more positive. Hope these help any of you who are feeling a little Grinch-ish this time of year!
1. Find the fun in the holidays
This is definitely more easier said than done, but I always try to focus on some of the parts of the season I love, because it’s impossible to completely avoid it. I love being able to sit and cozy up under a blanket and watch Christmas movies. I love decorating for winter/ Christmas and putting up a Christmas tree. Think of parts of the season that you love and focus on those, instead of the parts you don’t like. If you absolutely detest Christmas music, don’t listen to it, and try your best not to go anywhere that is blasting it. If you hate a Christmas tree, don’t feel pressured to get a Christmas tree. Listen to yourself and don’t feel pressure to fall into the trap of doing the whole stereotypical Christmas thing.
2. Take Holiday breaks
This is one of the key things for me; take time that is completely away from the holiday. I always make sure to just do some normal things throughout the holiday season to remind myself that not everything revolves around it. Go to a coffee shop and get a coffee, not a hot chocolate. Go to a movie and see a scary movie. Remind yourself that this time of year is not permanent and eventually things will go back to normal.
3. Stay busy
This time of year is the busiest, so try to embrace it! Spend your time getting things done, so you don’t have to add the stress of being behind onto your list. Take time to check off the lingering things on your 2018 to do list, and dedicate the month of December to your goals. It will keep your mind off the craziness of the season and give you something to focus on outside of the holiday (why do you think I do my #25DaysofGabi series each year).
4. Keep your daily routine
This is my tip for basically any problem you are having, and holiday stress is no different: keep your routine! Just because it is the holidays and things get a little busier doesn’t mean you should throw your daily activities out the window. Keeping something constant through all the change that happens this time of year makes everything a whole lot easier. Don’t have a routine? Now is as good a time as any to create one.
5. Be realistic
As much as you try, this time of year is not going to go perfectly. Things are going to pop up throughout the season that are going to throw you off balance. Expect it, get through it and don’t forget to breathe.
xoxo
Gabriela
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