1. Acknowledge our feelings: we can't force ourselves to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
2. Reach out: we can seek out community, religious or social events. Volunteering is also a great way to lift our spirits and broaden our connections.
3. We can be realistic: holidays don't have to be perfect. Life changes and families and relationships do as well. We can find new ways of celebrating and adjust our expectations.
4. Set aside differences: we can try to accept family and friends as they are, even if they don't live up to our expectations or hopes. We can be patient with others, as they're likely to be feeling the pressure as well.
5. Stick to a budget: avoid trying to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts, Lol;) We can donate to a charity in someone's name, give homemade gifts or start a family gift exchange, only buying one gift each.
6. Plan ahead: we can ask for help if we need it.
7. Learn to say no: we can work on removing items from our agenda
8. Don't abandon healthy habits: don't let the holidays become a free-for-all;) We can try to get plenty of sleep, eat health snacks before parties to avoid excessive sweets/drinking/cheese and find time to exercise.
9. Take a breather: we can make time for ourselves. Spending just 15 minutes alone may be refreshing enough to handle whatever comes (talk a walk, listen to soothing music, get a massage, read a delightful book).
10. Last but not least, seek professional help if we need it. There is no shame in talking to someone who is an expert in the complexities and challenges of relationships. They've certainly heard it all and they NEVER judge, the power of which we should never underestimate. Sometimes we just need to be heard... no one even has to know;)
Blessings,
Chatgirl
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