Am I the only one who sometimes finds herself feeling a little “Grinchy” during the holiday season?
While many people feel joyful during the holidays, others may feel stressed, overwhelmed, sad or lonely thinking of holidays past, loved ones lost or expectations for a perfect family or holiday life unmet, guilt because you don’t want to be with family or because you can’t provide the “perfect” holiday for your family or friends.
The good news is that you aren’t alone and there are things you can do to successfully manage troublesome emotions during this “most wonderful time of the year”.
Try my top 10 tips below to manage these feelings successfully and tell me what you think…
1) Accept whatever feelings come up, know you aren’t alone.
2) Stay in the moment/pay attention/be mindful so you can fully enjoy the moments.
3) Lower your expectations for a perfect holiday, family/life and self. Don’t compare yourself to others unless it’s to realize how fortunate you are. LET GO OF PERFECTIONISM! Do your best then let the rest go.
4) Practice gratitude for what you do have don’t dwell on what you don’t have.
5) If you are having a tough time take care of yourself by doing what you feel you need to do for yourself (nurture self). Create joy for your and others through your thoughts and behavior.
6) Don’t be alone. Get out with friends, create your own traditions, do something fun and do something for someone else!
7) Remember that it’s just a day like any other. 24 hrs and you can get through any 24 hr period. There is no PERFECT way to manage the holidays, so follow your instincts and do what you feel you need to.
8) Handle holiday stress and frustrations by asking yourself “How important is it really?” If you can’t get the perfect gift or are late or whatever, practice letting it go. It’s not worth giving up your serenity for it.
9) Maintain balance. Self care, being engaged, don’t overdo the eating or drinking, get exercise and rest but have fun! Enjoy the little moments and little blessings and put more focus on the positive.
10) Let go! (remember what happened to the Grinch in the end?)
NOTE: If you are a heroine or hero on the quest join our online tribes at Vision Quest Retreats & Women Owned Business Wednesdays!
Much continued success, love & well being,
Nicole
