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As the holiday season approaches, many families are reassessing their customs. Last year, my family made the unusual choice to skip the big family gatherings, which turned out to be a surprisingly restful experience. Like many mothers, I often find myself overwhelmed by the pressure of holiday expectations, so this year, I’m determined to keep the joy while lightening my load.
To help navigate the holiday stress, I consulted with various experts, including Dr. Anna Michaels, a neuropsychologist, Mia Bennett, a bestselling author and mother of two, and Dr. Sarah Thompson, a psychologist. Their insights reveal that with a little intention, we can enjoy a delightful holiday season without the added stressors. Here are their key recommendations:
1. Embrace Mindfulness Over Busyness
Dr. Michaels emphasizes the importance of being intentional during this hectic time. Instead of rushing through activities on autopilot, reflect on what the holidays mean to you and prioritize mental well-being. Free mindfulness apps can be a great tool for cultivating awareness.
2. Create a Family Plan
Mia suggests writing a holiday bucket list together as a family, focusing on simple traditions that everyone cherishes. Examples might include baking cookies, watching classic holiday movies, or driving around to see festive lights. This way, you can focus on what truly matters and reduce unnecessary stress.
3. Self-Reflection is Key
Dr. Thompson encourages taking time to check in with yourself. Our needs can change, and recognizing what you need can lead to a more enjoyable experience.
4. Set and Communicate Boundaries
We all have that one family member who can make gatherings uncomfortable. Dr. Michaels recommends clearly expressing your boundaries. If someone crosses a line, it’s completely acceptable to excuse yourself from the conversation.
5. Make Self-Care a Priority
Mia warns against neglecting your own needs during busy times. Find small, daily ways to care for yourself, whether through exercise, relaxation, or hobbies. This will help you recharge and support your family.
6. Plan Ahead
To safeguard your mental space, Dr. Thompson advises preparing for potential triggers before attending gatherings. Anticipating difficult topics and having a strategy can help you navigate challenges gracefully.
7. Let Go of Perfection
Holiday movies often portray an unrealistic view of family life. Dr. Michaels encourages you to release the desire for perfection. Embracing the imperfect allows for a more genuine and enjoyable holiday experience.
8. Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Help
It’s important to recognize when you need assistance. Whether it’s enlisting family members for tasks or utilizing delivery services, the more support you have, the more time you can dedicate to what truly matters.
9. Learn to Say No
Creating a bucket list can also help you identify traditions you and your family may not enjoy. It’s perfectly okay to decline certain invitations. A polite “Thank you for inviting us, but we won’t make it this year” suffices. Use that time to enjoy what your family loves.
Regardless of your holiday plans, aim to reduce stress and increase joy for everyone involved.
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