As the holidays are quickly approaching, it is understandable to feel stressed. Whether you have positive or negative emotions associated with the holiday season, it is normal for people to feel the presence of holiday stress. While you may think that if you dot all your i’s and cross all your t’s everything will magically fall into place, most of the time that is an unachievable expectation.
In reality, the present moment in time is the only thing that we have control over. We can plan things for the future, but the reality is that anything can happen and the things we plan for can be completely thrown off. The only thing that we have any control over in life is the present. Keeping this mindset as we enter into a season of holiday stress is a helpful way to be mindful of your time and actions.
Remember the Big Picture
Holidays are usually a time where people gather and spend time together. In the midst of these gatherings, there is usually a large checklist of things that need to be done in order for everything to sail smoothly. While making a list of things that should get done is important, it’s also important to appreciate the time you have while you have it.
Yes, the Thanksgiving turkey will need to get in the oven at a certain time, and it’s a good idea to complete that goal to the best of your ability. However! If the turkey goes into the oven 30 minutes behind schedule, that is okay! The turkey will still get cooked, and you will still be able to eat, the only thing that has shifted is the time you get to eat it.
You are still able to spend the day with loved ones and that is what matters. So, while it is okay to have a schedule in mind, do not wear yourself thin trying to complete everything! Yes, the turkey is an important part of a Thanksgiving meal, but in the end, it’s just food.
Go in with the Right Attitude
Even though it may not seem relevant, the attitude you have when entering a situation plays a major part in how it plays out. There may be certain parts of the holiday season that you just do not enjoy, and that’s okay! Instead of focusing on all the parts you DONT like, make it a point to schedule things you DO enjoy into the holiday season.
If you don’t like the cold of winter, maybe make a plan to spend the holidays somewhere warm! There are no rules when it comes to how you have to spend your holiday season, so take control of your life and spend this time doing things you would like to do! Having the right attitude is a complete game-changer when it comes to holiday stress. When you are enjoying the things you do it rubs off on those around you!
Set Reasonable Expectations
Most people have had experiences where they set their hopes and happiness on one specific thing, and then that thing doesn’t happen. It could be wanting a phone for Christmas, or waiting for a promotion at work. While it is not unreasonable to have expectations for your life, it is important to remember that’s all they are.
Expectations are not a guarantee, and sometimes they don’t line up with other people’s abilities. While that can be disappointing, don’t stay in that mentality. Imperfections are a part of life and even though they can be annoying, they can help people remember what is important.
Maybe you won’t get that holiday bonus this year, or you won’t get a pony for Christmas. The important thing is that you have the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones and make amazing memories despite the holiday stress!
