Christmas is fast approaching, and most people are wrapping up their work year, taking holidays and spending time with the family. Theoretically, this is the month we slow down to reconnect with loved ones, celebrate the year past, and gratefully acknowledge all our blessings. In reality, for many, it is the most stressful month of the year. And why wouldn't it be stressful?
- The kids are on a seemingly never-ending break from school and looking for constant entertainment.
- You're braving the teeming Christmas shopping crowds to find just the right present (without spending too much) for every friend and family member.
- Your annual family events pull together a bunch of people who hardly see each other for the rest year and, inevitably, there's weirdness and friction.
If, like me, you've had one too many Christmases running around like the turkey with its head chopped off, you're not alone. In fact, Mia's just posted her 5 Most Stressful Things About Christmas.
When enough is enough!
As we limped towards the summer break last year, tired and cranky, I thought about what I wanted from our holiday time together.
- I didn't want to put pressure on the kids, or myself, to be running from one activity to the next.
- I didn't want to have to say, “come on kids, we're going to be late,” over and over.
- I didn't want to be constantly busy – doing lots of things but not having a moment to appreciate the important things.
I acknowledged what was 'enough' for us, and didn't take on any more. I turned down some invitations, and made sure we all had time to relax and recover between big outings.
A full and fulfilling holiday
We enjoyed visits from grandparents, took in the Paris Opera Ballet and Disney On Ice, went to the zoo, and kept up our usual play dates and outings to the park. And when the holidays ended, I felt satisfied and rejuvenated instead of stressed and in need of another break! I'm hoping to repeat that experience this year… I'll let you know how I go. In the meantime I'd love to hear about your holidays. What's important to you? How do you keep the stress down? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Image by D Sharon Pruitt
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