I went with enthusiasm to start my Christmas shopping a few days ago. The festive spirit filled the mall with sparkling lights, merry songs, and smiling Santas. I love Christmas; I love the sentiment behind Christmas – a time of giving and receiving, a time to be with loved ones, a time to eat, drink, and be merry. I love singing carols, and Christmas brings back happy childhood memories for me every year.
But I also find Christmas to be tiring and stressful. Like me, many of my clients admit that behind the scenes, they face a different kind of season – one that is full of stress and anxiety. While it’s portrayed as a time of joy and family reunions, the reality for many can involve a whirlwind of activities and emotions that are far from calming. Over the years, I’ve worked on my personal development, understanding what lights me up, what pulls me down, what triggers negative emotions in me, why I get stressed, etc., and I make a point of dealing with these issues before they arise and I want to help you do the same. It begins by identifying what they are.
Here are some common triggers I recognise that make Christmas time more hectic than happy for me:
Unrealistic Expectations: Whether it’s the perfect Christmas decor, the ideal family gathering, or the ultimate gift, the quest for everything to be just right can be a major source of stress. Remember, it’s okay for things not to be perfect.
Financial Burdens: Gifts, travel, decorations, and festive meals can significantly strain your wallet. Setting a budget and sticking to it can help alleviate this pressure.
Busy Schedules: Christmas often means a packed calendar of shopping, social events, and family activities. Managing your time effectively can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Family Tensions: Not all family gatherings are cheerful, and unresolved issues can resurface. Setting boundaries and planning how to manage difficult conversations can make a difference. This is something I can help you with; reach out and ask me about the techniques I use.
Loneliness: For those who are estranged from family, live overseas, or have recently experienced a loss, the emphasis on togetherness can accentuate feelings of isolation.
Here are some of my tips for a calmer Christmas:
Set Realistic Expectations. Try to keep your holiday plans simple and fun. Aim for contentment rather than perfection. Let go a little and remember this is a time to be joyful.
Create a Budget: Decide how much you can comfortably spend on gifts, food, and decorations, and stick to it. Consider handmade gifts or experiences as thoughtful, budget-friendly alternatives. It really is the thought that counts, not the price tag.
Plan Ahead: Organise your weeks in the run-up to Christmas to avoid last-minute rushes. Prioritise activities that are most important to you and your family. Ask for help; don’t try and do everything yourself. Say no to some events and arrange to see those friends in January when the busy period is over.
Communicate Openly: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, share your feelings with someone you trust. Just talking about it can lighten your load. I can help you with this.
Take Time for Yourself: Amid the hustle and bustle, carve out time for activities that you enjoy and find relaxing; whether reading a book, going for a walk, or practicing yoga, it’s essential to recharge your batteries during this time.
Try to focus on what the holiday season is truly about—connection, gratitude, and goodwill. By doing this, you can reduce the commercial pressure and enhance your overall enjoyment of the season. Taking a step back to appreciate the simple joys can remind us of the peace and beauty this time of year can offer.
Keep these tips in mind to help preserve your mental well-being. Planning wisely and caring for yourself can transform Christmas stress into an opportunity to make joyful memories. If you need some support now or in the new year, reach out to me. I have a heap of strategies and techniques to help you.
Wishing you and your family a very Happy and Calm Christmas!
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True Joy at Christmas: A Life Coach’s Guide to Festive Happiness
