The holiday season is officially amongst us. Even though this is the most wonderful time of the year, I think that we can all agree that it is also the most stressful time of the year.
If there are two things that I want you to know about me, it is this.
The first thing that I want you to know, is that I don’t do well with stress. It doesn’t matter how big or small the stressor might be, I overthink everything that comes through this big noggin of mine. It’s just how I have always been.
The second thing that I want you to know, is that I like to joke around far too often. I try to make those around me laugh and smile, simply because I think that we all take life too seriously at times. My thinking is that maybe we will be happier if we just learn to lighten up a little bit more.
That’s what the holidays are about though, right? Being happy and merry.
When the holiday season rolls around, you better believe that I am going to do whatever it takes just to prevent myself from pulling my hair out due to the stress and anxiety that follows. So, to make sure that doesn’t happen, here is how I am managing stress during the holiday season.
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Laugh a little.
Well, like I said, I like to joke around a lot. But why not? Have you ever noticed how easily annoyed and angry we become when we take things too seriously? So why not learn to lighten up, and just be happy for all that we are blessed with.
Laugh because you live the life that you live. Laugh because you are going to make many mistakes on a daily basis. And laugh because it not only makes you feel better, but because it also reduces stress.
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Take some time for yourself.
The holidays aren’t just about those around you, they are for you as well. All of the running around during these two months can often leave us feeling drained. So don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Even if it is just 15 minutes, don’t forget to give your mind and body some time to relax.
Watch a movie, treat yourself to dinner, or even buy yourself a gift. It doesn’t have to be anything over the top, just think about yourself as well.
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Plan ahead.
Trust me, procrastination is not the key to success. It is only going to leave you feeling overwhelmed and stressed.
Instead of running around last minute, plan ahead. Buy gifts in advance, organize your days and weeks on a calendar, and write to-do lists for what it is that you need to accomplish. You can even buy some gifts online if you know that you are busy. Just do whatever you can do to help prevent yourself from running around last-minute.
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Listen to some good music.
Buddy The EIf once said, “The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.” Okay, that was a little corny, but it’s true.
Call me weird, but I sometimes listen to Christmas during the summer months. There is just something about it that brings me happiness and pure joy. It’s cheerful, upbeat, and overall, it just puts me in good spirits.
Well, when I am stressed, these are generally the things that I need more of. So I just like to throw some music on, and let my mind wander, and think about something else.
These are just a few ways that I am managing stress during the holiday season. Try them out and see if they work for you as well.
But whatever you do, don’t forget the real meaning behind the holiday season. Remember to make memories and spend time with the ones that you love most, and be grateful for all that you have. Cherish your blessings in life, and help to bless those who are not as fortunate as you are.
Michael Bonnell
12/6/2018
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