Enjoy the Holidays With More Pleasure & Less Pressure

"It's the most wonderful time of the year!" "Tis the season to be jolly...!"

There's no doubt about it. The winter holidays are the most hyped, hurried, pressure-oriented, celebrated time of the year. Hands down.

For many Americans, it's a time of jubilation, wonderment, good food and good fun. For others? Well, it's a season of sadness, depression, and stress.

Memories of loved ones lost. Anticipation. Expectations. Family obligations.

Being stretched financially and physically.

It can be overwhelming indeed.

Regardless as to which category or camp you fall in, there's a way to navigate the days ahead with more pleasure and less pressure.

So, if you're on board, grab a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and let's explore a few. Shall we?

HERE ARE A FEW TIMELY STRATEGIES IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER...

1. PLAN AHEAD.

Whether it's shopping, meal planning, or cleaning, tending to the necessities in advance will save time, frustration, and sometimes money.

2. SET THE PROPER MINDSET.

Remind yourself that the holidays don't last forever. As the bible states "and this too shall pass." Doing so may give you a sense of relief and peace.

3. GIVE YOURSELF GRACE.

As my friend Karen sometimes reminds me, it's important to recognize that as humans, despite our best efforts, we may miss the mark. The turkey might taste like leather, we may forget to dust in the living room, or experience a bad hair day. Don't sweat it. Strive for excellence, not perfection. Keeping in mind that it's impossible to please everybody. Trust me; I've tried.

4. GIVE YOUR DIET THE DAY OFF!

Why torture yourself? Just don't over-indulge. Moderation is key here.

5. DELEGATE WHEN POSSIBLE.

Make it a real family affair. For example, for Thanksgiving, I hosted a "pot luck" at my house. It was delightful. Doing so gave everyone an opportunity to share their signature dish, and meant less cooking and preparation for me. It also provided for a greater diversity of side dishes and desserts. 

It works if you work it!

6. REVISE YOUR EXPECTATIONS.

Let's face it. Your family probably won't be as harmonious as the Brady bunch. Or the Partridge family. Or the fine folks in Mayberry, with Andy Griffith. True? Mine either.

That doesn't mean we can't embrace how weird and wonderful they are, and show gratitude for the beauty of our collective community. Remember, we can't choose our relatives, but we can choose how we react to them and how we opt to engage with them over the holidays.

7. DON'T DARE NEGLECT SELF-CARE!

There's great truth to the adage "you can't give from an empty cup." With all your doing, make sure to make yourself a priority as well. Hello?  Carve out a little free time and a little "me time." Treat yourself to a little gift. Meditate. Medicate. Get needed rest. Have a glass of spiced eggnog. Schedule a pedicure. Whatever gets you through! 

"We shall never pass this way again."

In conclusion...

I hope something shared today made you smile, reflect, or look forward to the reason for the season. If so, I'd love to hear from you in the comments. Thanks for stopping by.

Wishing you and yours a joyous, abundant, safe holiday season!

Pen & Prosper is slated to return around February, 2025.