This is the time of year where our obligations grow, and our expectations are high. The Holidays official start is this week. With Thanksgiving Day on Thursday and of course the food preparations all week plus getting the house ready for guests.
Then shopping for gifts for those we love and care for. December brings Christmas and more family gatherings along with special events and decorations.
This all sounds lovely unless it’s stressful for you. Sometimes the stresses become overwhelming for some and instead of a fun season it becomes forced work.
This season is about being thankful and joyful for the Savior who was born for us. But in the hustle and bustle of the extra workload, stress can steal your joy in this season if you let it.
You have a choice you can let the stress beat you or fuel you the choice is yours. Here are a few helpful truths to think about that can relieve holiday stress.
*Your family loves you not for what you do for them or what you give them but because you are a part of them.
*Money doesn’t buy happiness. Happiness is a by product of what we do.
*Not overspending for Christmas will relieve stress. Stick with an amount (budget) and shop within your amount.
*People love the thought put into a gift. There’s lots of creative ideas that don’t cost a lot but lets someone know you are thinking of them.
*Do things you want to do, not what you feel pressured to do. The pressures and how you think about them are what cause the stress.
*Don’t compare yourself to others. God never compares you to another. Be you! Don’t be something you’re not.
The holidays are times to be thankful and spend time with family and friends. If you don’t have family, it can be painful. I understand this when my mom died it took me a few years to go to other people’s gatherings.
But think about allowing yourself to be a part of someone else’s gathering. Give yourself permission to engage in the holidays once again.
Human beings need fellowship, love and connection so go for it either go or ask someone to eat with you at your home.
Put a pin in the air of stress: lower expectations, take breaks, breathe and enjoy each day through this Holiday Season.
Enjoy the Season!