How To Create Family-Life Balance During The Busy Holiday Season
"Balance is not something
you find,
It's something you create."
~Jana Kingsford"
The Holidays are a busy time. If you have a busy schedule, adding more items to your to-do list can feel overwhelming! However, it is possible to find a balance in your day-to-day life and during the busy holiday Season.
I've compiled my top five tips and tools to help you get through the holidays. You can use any of these tools at any time to regain balance. I hope this will help you have the most balanced Holiday ever.
1. First and foremost, take care of YOU. Your family needs you, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed with the added stress of a 'busier day.' Take care of your heart by walking daily or calling a friend. Take care of your mind by journaling daily, reading a book, or getting professional counseling. Remember, your well-being is crucial, and by prioritizing self-care, you are showing yourself that you are valued and important.
2. Keep your expectations modest. Take the holidays as they come, and be careful about comparing your holidays to the "greeting card ideal." I watch the movie "It's a Wonderful Life" each year. It always helps me remember what is essential.
3. Try something different. Does the idea of the usual family routine fill you with dread rather than joy? If so, change it up. Go for dinner this year, or spend Christmas Day at the movie theatre. Skip gifts and donate money to your favorite charity. Try releasing the pressure value of what is supposed to happen instead of what new and wonderful things CAN happen! Embrace the joy of trying something new and different, and let your adventurous spirit guide you.
4. Forget the unimportant stuff. Don't have time to put up lights or decorations this year? Don't do it, and don't run yourself ragged! Give yourself a break. Worrying about trivial stuff will not add to the holiday spirit. What is important? Spend time with family and friends, hearing family stories from gramps or grandma. Take long winter walks and enjoy the moments with loved ones.
5. Head off problems and set boundaries. What triggers YOU during the holidays? Do you have a family member you don't enjoy being around? If something stresses you out, consciously avoid that scenario. You have a choice. Instead, stop by for a quick hello instead of staying longer than feels comfortable to you. If a conversation makes you uncomfortable, politely remove yourself, let that person know you would rather talk about something else, or change the subject as you feel the triggers. You have more control than you might think in any social situation, and setting boundaries can often bring relief and empowerment.
There is so much pressure to attend every holiday festivity, especially if you have a lot of friends. Don't say yes, don't overbook yourself, and don't stay longer than you want. Take a partner with you to the office party and have a plan for how long you will be there.
Remember to stay present during the Season. Have that fun holiday piece of pie, but remember to eat sensibly and exercise; January 1st is just around the corner!