The countdown is over, the gifts are unwrapped, the signature holiday dishes are served (and some may still be in the works). Merry Christmas, everyone!
This year as in all years, you deserve a happy, meaningful, and peaceful Christmas. As the festivities continue today and in the days to come, remember to take a step back no matter how briefly, so the holidays will leave you on good terms with yourself and with everyone around you. Here are a few reminders for you to have a more peaceful Christmas:
Reunions and get-togethers can easily drain your social battery. If you have kids, this battery gets drained twice as fast. Set time for yourself not as an afterthought by waking up a few minutes before everyone else does to enjoy your hot cup of coffee uninterrupted. Do some exercising or gardening when the kids are asleep or when there’s a down time from the busyness of event preparations.
Of the long list of things you’re meant to do for the day, which is something that only you can and must do? The other tasks may be delegated instead.
You’re always on your A-game especially when it comes to the holidays, but the weather, traffic, and other mishaps often challenge you. All of a sudden, you can’t book a ride that causes you to run late, or your rider cannot fulfill the expected delivery time due to volume of orders, or your trusted vendor had the wrong items delivered to your home. These things could be upsetting, but are they really worth the stress? Try to remain calm so you can think of Plan B fast.
Not into planning or cooking a meal? Feeling drained to attend to an event not initially in your calendar? Don’t feel guilty to say no. A packed schedule does not equate to a happier holiday season.
When you start seeing points of comparison between yourself and other people, you enter a rabbit hole that slowly but surely takes the joy out of you. Their seemingly grander feasts, more luxurious travels, and more expensive gifts and experiences sap your energy, catch yourself and shift the narrative: You have what you need in front of you.
It’s true what they say that your focus magnifies what you have. So when you focus on things to be grateful for, they keep multiplying. Instead of sulking over things you cannot have right now, try to think about them as things you’ll have at the proper time. This mindset can be a good motivation for you to start the year ahead.
If the clutter sitting on your living room or bedroom invites more tasks to get delayed or causes schedules to go haywire, it’s time to take some time to tackle the physical clutter. Put them back in their proper places, or share or donate them if you don’t need them any longer. Notice how the change in your physical surroundings will do wonder to your inner peace.
What does Christmas really mean for you and your family? If you go back to the essence of Christmas, you’ll realize that the hustle and bustle of your surroundings are unnecessary. Embrace the unhurriedness the holidays offer. Slow down and take several moments in your day to reflect on the very reason you celebrate this season.