We’re right in the thick of it now. The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year, but they are also the most stressful. There is so much pressure to be present and cheerful and enjoy every moment. But how many of us would prefer a nap occasionally?
We can’t turn everyone off, so here are a few tips to ease the holiday stress:
- Say NO! You do not have to do everything and be everywhere. Parties can go on without you, those cookies that your mom is begging for don’t have to be made today, and dinner with a friend can happen in January. Don’t try to race from obligation to obligation--gracefully and politely say no.
- Give Others the Benefit of the Doubt. If they seem pushy or needy, maybe they are feeling stressed too. Assume that people are well-intentioned, at least for this month.
- Pick Your Battles. If your willful daughter insists on pink snow boots with her holiday dress, it will provide a funny story and picture later. If your mother-in-law really wants lasagna for dinner, do you really care enough to argue? Fight when it’s worth it.
- Get enough sleep. We can’t suggest this enough. You cannot burn the candle at both ends. Have your kids get enough--even extra--sleep. Everyone is happier when well-rested.
- Forget Perfection. That bow on the package can be off-center, your tablecloth can be a little wrinkled. Everyone will survive. In fact, they probably won’t even notice.
- Take Breaks. It’s perfectly acceptable to hide in your closet pretending to wrap presents. Maybe drive out of your way when running errands alone? You can always say you were searching for the perfect gift for someone!
- Schedule Some Exercise. We know that we’re a fitness company and a little biased, but seriously, is there anything better than a sweat session to work out your stress? Strap on your Armpocket, blast your favorite non-holiday music, and forget everything else. And then follow it up with an extra long shower.
We promise you’ll make it, and in January, you’ll be lamenting how fast it all went. So remember, in the crazy times, to look around, take it all in, and be grateful.
