Self-Care Through the Holidays
December. Thanksgiving is over and the end of the year is near. Christmas is around the corner. No wonder December is ranked high as one of the most stressful months of the year.
I decided for this week’s post I’d share a few tips on self-care during the holiday season.
#1 Don’t beat yourself up
Don’t compare yourself to what other people do or buy or say. So what if Jill makes intricately decorated cookies for Christmas from scratch? Everyone devours your slice and bake peanut butter cookies with the Hershey Kiss plopped in the middle. They even ask you to make “those kiss cookies” again.
Slice and Bake Sugar Cookies
With a Wreath of Cornflakes
(think marshmallow treats)
and Little Red Candies
#2 Stop searching for the perfect gift
You already have it…Any gift you give from the heart with someone’s best in mind? That is the perfect gift… be it a pair of socks they love or a gift card to spend as they like.
You can buy or make gifts for those you love. Buying is faster and easier, but if you have the time and want to do something personal for someone, making a gift is an act of love. Just remember…It is already December, so building a dollhouse is a big project and takes time. If you want to make something, be sure you allot yourself time to complete the task or you’ll only add more stress to your plate.
Better yet: You can buy a model car kit for a child you love and take the time after the holidays to help her or him build it. That is a memory maker and the best gift of all.
Time is the most valuable gift you can give someone.
#3 Simplify your holiday entertainment plans
I have a beautiful set of Pfaltzgraff Snowman dishes. I used to use them during the holidays when I entertained. Not anymore. Paper plates are fine. Or the disposable plasticware. I don’t need to spend all that time washing dishes.
I used to go all out as well, cooking and baking for those parties. Now I invite people to bring something with them. Potluck meals are generally delicious and easier on everyone. So, when someone asks, “Can I bring something?” I give them a firm “Yes!”
#4 Don’t expect perfection
You do not live in a Hallmark movie. Even if you craft the perfect script in your mind as to how your friends and family will respond to Christmas, not everyone reads your mind.
You aren’t perfect. Nobody you know is perfect (on this earth) and everyone you know is in the same boat. Learn how to row with the team and not expect perfection from yourself or others. You will be disappointed. I guarantee it. So avoid trying to write the script of your own Hallmark movie and live with patience and love in the life you’ve been given.
#5 Don't Overeat
I know the candy and cookies and holiday meals with all the trimmings are tempting, but remind yourself to not indulge in a moment of sugar for a pound of regret. Entering the new year with any resolution that doesn't include "lose five pounds" (or more) is easier to attain.
