When it comes to the holidays, you could say I’m a huge fan. I mean, what Not Love tradition, entertain guests and spend quality time with family? There’s a lot of magic to be found in the off-season, especially if you’re raising young children. But the excitement of the most wonderful time of the year It can also be accompanied by stress and anxiety.
While I’m not one to shy away from busy schedules, there are so many commitments, pressures, and demands at this time of year that it’s hard for me to stay motivated. And the little things that don’t normally bother me can push me over the edge—I know you know what I mean.
If you find it difficult to be present during the holidays, I hear you! But it doesn’t have to be this way. And really, the reason for the season is to spend time creating memories that will last a lifetime with the people you love. So let’s make this holiday season our most purposeful and present. And really, after the stress of the past year and a half, we could all use some help setting holiday intentions. So let’s dive in.
Determine your worth
If you’re like me, the holidays are a great time to practice gratitude because we’re already thinking about the year ahead and reflecting on the one that’s passed. This is the perfect opportunity to forgive yourself for anything you didn’t do and let go of what no longer serves you, while focusing on the things you’re grateful for. Last year, we had to give up a lot of our usual holiday activities, and while that was heartbreaking, we can slow down and spend more time at home together to bond as one. family, that’s what I want to continue.
Everyone celebrates the holidays differently, so it’s important to define your values around the holidays. You can find value in practicing kindness by giving back to your community through volunteering at your local food bank. Or maybe you spend more time bonding with your family by writing a family mission statement or setting some goals together for the coming year. Whatever it is, commit fully to it.
Practice selective energy
I see a lot of pressure to create a perfect vacation where every gift is expertly wrapped, every meal is a Michelin star, and my home is decorated like the cover of a magazine. But the holidays aren’t about perfection for me, it’s about connection. At a time when something feels like an obligation, I don’t even feel like I’m respecting my own energy, needs, and values.
The most important thing I can do for myself and my family during the holidays is to keep mine values my mind, so I’m less likely to be distracted by unimportant things like I am. When I remember that life isn’t always perfect and that the holidays are okay, I can wrap every gift and make every meal with love and embark on DIY decorating projects that bring… joy for me.
Check your presence
As a parent, I focus on making this time of year memorable for my child by planning special activities, attending social gatherings, and visiting family. But with so many expectations surrounding the holiday, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. It’s impossible to enjoy the moment when I’m constantly focused on what’s next.
Since I love to plan out holiday activities and gatherings in advance, I also like to pencil in some times without any obligations. These are the moments where I can put my phone down and soak it all in. This quiet time helps me slow down and enjoy the things I love to do like baking for the holidays and spending more time with my family. It also helps me stay in control of my priorities and keeps me available throughout the month so I can focus on the things that really matter without stress!
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While the holidays can make you feel busy, distracted, and stressed, I hope you’ve found some tips here to help you create a more purposeful holiday season this year. . Remember that your day off is your. Whatever you choose to do for this season is completely up to you! I’d love to know all about how you’re going to spend the holidays, so leave me a comment letting me know. Good luck.
