I can definitely tell that the holiday season is upon us. How do I know that? Because I feel like people are already going crazy. I went to run some basic errands over the weekend and happened to be in the vicinity of a shopping center–it was already packed and people were driving around like crazy people! So to that I say–“everyone can we please just calm down.” The holidays are one of my favorite times of the year and I really want to enjoy them instead of dreading them. I have some tips to share with you today about how to savor the holidays and not stress over them. These tips are just as much for me as they are for you and I hope they help in some way.
Make your plans early
Have a general idea of where you’re going to be spending the holidays and who you will be spending them with. I know this one of probably a no-brainer but I think having a plan early helps so that you’re not trying to figure it out last-minute.
Make this the year you get all your shopping done early
I think last year was the first year in a while that I had my Christmas shopping done before the week of Christmas. This year I have set a goal to have all my shopping done by December 1st–that way I can just enjoy the rest of the month and be prepared.
Watch all of the holiday movies
One tradition that I have, with my mom, is to watch all of the Christmas movies available. This means Hallmark, ABC Family, old classics, etc.–we watch them all, even if they’re dorky. I think this is a fun tradition to have and it’s something that I enjoy during the holidays.
Enjoy the company of others
I love doing festive things with people during the holiday seasons! If you do too–go ice skating, drive around and look at Christmas lights, have a “Friends-giving,” have a holiday movie night, bake together or make Christmas cookies, dress up fancy and go see the ballet, etc. There are so many things you can do this time of year to enjoy the company of others around you.
Reflect on what the holidays are all about
I think that this point gets missed a lot because of the crazy and business of the holidays. But seriously, take some time to reflect. As much as we tend to think this, the holidays are not about us. Be thankful for so many things in your life and count your blessings. Reflect on the meaning of Christmas and savor the truth of Christ’s birth. I think this tip might be the most important thing to take to heart during the holidays–I know I’m going to try to be better at it this year.
I’m really looking forward to the next few weeks and months of celebration and I hope you are too!
Love From Amy 