Growing up, there was nothing quite like the magic of the holiday season. The same holds true now, though I have learned how much work is required to make the holidays special. While we continue to navigate a challenging time in the world, it is more important than ever to enjoy the season without the stress. These 4 simple ways to stress less this holiday season will help anyone looking to do just that.
Choose Your Theme
There is so much pressure to do it all – decorate your house, bake perfect cookies, attend and host parties, purchase great gifts, and so on. What actually matters is to put your energy into what matters to you. This year, I invite you to create a theme. This theme will become your decision-making guidepost throughout the season. It will help you focus on what matters to you, while letting go of the rest. For example, if your theme is “Cozy Up Inside” – you just might bake the perfect batch (or three) of cookies, watch your top ten holiday movies, and say no to any invitations that come your way. If you choose “Connect With Others”, you might send out personalized cards, volunteer at a local organization, and attend or host holiday parties. Whatever theme you choose, make sure it will bring you and your family joy this season – and simply let go of the rest.
Pick Three Priorities
Whatever your theme, take stock of the three things that are most important for you this season. For me, it is to host my family Christmas party, decorate cookies with my daughter, and create a memorable Christmas morning. If I only do those three things this season, I will be completely happy. Everything else? It’s all icing on those cookies. Write down the three things that matter most to you and your family, and focus on making them happen.
Plan Spontaneous Fun
Part of the fun of the holiday season is the element of surprise. As a mom, it is often your job to create those special moments. A dear friend introduced me to a concept last year, and I love it.
- Find (or draw) a calendar of the season, and choose at least one time slot each week that will be reserved for spontaneous fun.
- Depending on how many slots you have, have family members (or just you as parents) write down fun things to do on individual pieces of paper. These should require little to no prep, and be things you can do at a moment’s notice. Ideas include things like, “Make popcorn and watch Elf“, “Go on an evening drive to look at light displays”, or “Have a Family Gingerbread House competition”. Put each piece of paper into a container to be pulled out later.
- On each day or evening where you have a slot available, one member of the family will pull a piece of paper. Then, go and enjoy that activity with your family!
Take Care Of Yourself
As moms, we often put the needs of others ahead of our own. This is especially true during this busy season. Consider this your permission to prioritize your self-care throughout the season. Like everything on this list, take stock of what you need. It might be taking a 15 minute walk by yourself each morning, scheduling childcare so you can book a weekly appointment with a therapist, calling a dear friend, or booking a massage. You deserve just as much care and attention as you give to those around you this season.
Let us know your best tips for enjoying the holiday season by tagging us at @centralmassmom.
