07/12/2024
Fighting Holiday Fatigue
The holidays can be stressful, even if you don't have kids. Everyone is rushing around trying to get things done. For people who start their holiday season with Halloween, the following eight weeks can become nothing but chaos in just a few days. My granddaughter introduced me to the social battery concept.
Your social battery is there to remind you to step away when you begin to feel overwhelmed with the outside world. Just like any other battery, it gets depleted anytime too much energy is used. This can be caused by dealing with crowds of people or simply too much mental and physical stress. You need to recharge yourself! The following tips can help!
Avoid Peak Shopping Times
Being stuck in a crowd of people can be overwhelming, especially if many of them seem irritable or stressed. Avoid shopping during the peak traffic times. The roads will be less congested and you won't have to deal with long lines when you check out. You will also avoid having to work your way through crowded aisles while you are looking for the items you want.
Start Planning Early
Many people thrive under pressure. Others, however, don't need the stress of dealing with last minute decisions, especially during the holidays. Start planning holiday festivities early so you have time to make any adjustments. Make a few detailed lists if it will keep you more organized. It will give you peace of mind and allow you an opportunity to actually enjoy the season and all its activities.
Leave Early When Traveling
If you are traveling, leave early to give yourself more time. There will be more traffic to contend with and, if the temperatures are low, you may have to drive slower due to slick or snow-covered roads. Take it slow no matter where you are going. A trip to the grocery store can give you just as much risk as a trip across country. There's no need to rush. Take your time and enjoy the ride.
Don't Take Things Personally
Everyone has something in their life that makes them moody. If you are out and about and run into someone who is irritable, give them a little grace. Their anger or irritability may not have anything to do with you at all. Instead of taking it personally and reacting in anger, smile and give them a silent blessing. Smiles are contagious. It may be just what is needed to turn their day around.
Gift Yourself a Massage or Spa Day
You may be so busy finding gifts for your loved ones that you forget to treat yourself. You deserve a chance to receive something in return for all your hard work. Schedule a massage or spend some time at the salon. Get a haircut or have your nails and toes done. Pamper yourself with a mani/pedi!
It's the Thought That Counts
People often go broke during the holidays trying to buy the best for their friends and family. The thought is what is most important. Why spend a huge amount of money on gifts that will be set aside after the first of the year. Look for gifts that mean something. Buy something useful or make something that you know they will use. You will save your cash and give a gift that shows you truly care.
Eliminate the Gifts, Make Memories Instead
Families who struggle with financial burdens can lighten the load by eliminating the gifts from their Christmas list. Fill your children's stockings with small items, but save your money for a family trip or adventure close to home. Gifts will be quickly forgotten, but making new memories each year will give your kids something they can cherish for the rest of their lives!
Make Healthy Choices!
Many people often celebrate the holidays by foregoing their healthy routines. It's fine to have that extra slice of pie as long as you keep up your exercise routine. Taking a few days off can make it more difficult to get back in the swing of things once the holidays are over. It's also a good idea to make healthy choices when it comes to your mood. If someone snaps at you in anger, responding in kind will only make the situation worse. Let it pass and keep your good mood in tact.
Don't Forget to Rest!
It may not be easy if all the holiday preparations fall on your shoulders, but you need to take the time to rest and recover after a long, stressful day. It's okay to sit down and take a few deep breaths when you start to feel overwhelmed. If you are at work or out in public, find a quiet place to sit where you won't be disturbed. When you get home, take a long, hot shower or bath. Put the electronics away and get a good night's sleep
Take Time for Yourself
Self-care is a must. Spend time working on a hobby you enjoy. Drink a cup of coffee and watch the sun come up. Take the time you need to recharge your batteries. Make sure you can enjoy the holiday festivities with the rest of your family. You deserve a reason to celebrate just like everyone else.
And finally, practice gratitude. Be thankful for the beautiful things you have in your life. We all have gifts we take for granted. Cherish each one and celebrate the little things! Practicing these tips will help you get through the holidays without feeling like you've moved mountains for the last couple of months!
