It feels like it was summer just a minute ago, but it's late November, and the holidays are already here. You may be scrambling to finalize a menu for a big holiday meal or ordering gifts. You may be worried about hanging lights or booking travel. Take a deep breath, and let go of some tension in your shoulders or jaw.
Does that feel a little better? Let's keep that feeling going. Here are six tips to support a more satisfying holiday season:
Cultivate healthy emotional boundaries. I don't know who needs to hear this, but you're not responsible for other people's emotions, especially during the holidays. I'm not saying that you have to be a Grinch, but you do need to be honest. Say no when you need to, and shut down uncomfortable conversations when you can.
Schedule time for yourself. It's easy to get overscheduled during the holidays; it almost seems mandatory. You know I'm going to say it, so here it is: Prioritize rest and downtime. Scheduling rest is even more critical when your free time is likely to fill up with outside obligations. You're much more likely to get adequate rest if you actively schedule it.
Ditch the holiday trappings that don't work for you. No aspect of holiday celebration is absolutely required; you don't have to do anything you don't want to do. The best part is that if you let go of all the holiday trappings you don't enjoy, you have more time/space/energy for the elements you love. You can even try something new this year, and who knows? Maybe that will become your new tradition in the years to come.
Give fewer gifts. Most people are swimming in stuff and don't need anything else. Families and friend groups can draw names or do a gift swap instead of purchasing gifts for each individual. You can give practical items, food or other consumables, lessons, tickets to a show -- there are all sorts of presents that aren't just "stuff." Though some folks think it's gauche, you can also give cash. You don't even have to exchange gifts at all.
Donate to causes you care about. Non-profits rely on the generosity of people feeling the holiday spirit; about 30% of all charitable donations each year are made in December. Instead of only donating during the holidays, pick an organization whose mission you believe in and commit to making a monthly contribution. Even a small monthly sum adds up over the course of a year! (Bonus: Volunteer if you have time, and plan to continue regularly volunteering in the new year.)
Reach out to far-flung friends and family members. Make a point this year to text your cousins, drop a card to your childhood friends, and video call your loved ones in other states. Send someone a letter letting them know how much you appreciate them. Invite an old friend to see a holiday show. Make plans to have tea in the new year. The holidays can be stressful and lonely, but they don't have to be. Let someone know that you're thinking of them and that you care.
I hope some of this helps smooth the way for a simpler and happier holiday season. No challenge this week! You folks are on my gratitude list this year, for sure. Thank you for reading!
P.S. There are also some good tips to revisit in last year's holiday newsletter.