There is so much to enjoy about the holidays. Young children are excited about lights and presents. We often see friends and family we haven’t seen for a while. It’s a time of reconnecting with traditions.
Have you ever had the holidays go by only to realize that you were so wound up you didn’t remember to enjoy yourself? Slow down! I have 4 tips for a happy, low-stress holiday season.
Simplify
Rather than quantity, aim for quality. Do fewer things better. I wrote about my new One Thing plan last week, and it’s helping me to simplify my approach to the holidays.
Get Enough Sleep
It’s so simple! Our bodies need enough sleep to keep us healthy and alert. The short-term effects of sleep deprivation can interfere with a smooth, calm holiday season, but the long-term effects can take a huge toll on your health.
Consider Nutrition
If you eat sweets at parties in the evening, bring some serious nutritional balance back to your life by having a fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch.
Fewer Triggers
Be honest about those things that set you off, and cut back. If it’s your siblings, keep your time with them structured and focused on common ground. If it’s finances, just let go of giving gifts you have to buy. If it is particular colleagues, put your work focus elsewhere as often as you can during stressful times.
There is a reason airlines instruct you to put on your own oxygen mask first. You need all of your strength and clarity to take care of the rest of your family—and you also need to remain calm and aware to enjoy yourself this holiday season.
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