Complex emotions can arise when the holiday season is on the horizon. Excitement, exhaustion, stress, grief and even dread might all be mixing together, making it hard for individuals to wrap up the year on a high note. No matter what holidays you celebrate, there are helpful tips and tricks to navigate your feelings and cope with stress.
#1 Plan ahead
- Keeping track of what you need to do and where you need to be is a significant first step to staying afloat this holiday season. This will help you set time aside to work through your to-do list and, hopefully, still have some time left over for yourself. A backup plan can also be your best friend—it’s okay if you don’t feel up for attending your third holiday party of the weekend. Comfy clothes and a good movie with family will do wonders.
- Another important aspect of holiday planning is budgeting. The holidays can be a significant financial stressor each year, but setting a budget and sticking to it can ease this strain. Talk to loved ones about setting a spending limit, or even find a gift-free way to celebrate.
#2 Honor your feelings
- If you’re not feeling your best, sharing your feelings with a trusted friend or family member can be comforting. They can provide a listening ear, and they might even be feeling the same way. Many people find the holidays to be a difficult time of year because of grief, financial pressures, or loneliness.
- It’s especially important to trust yourself and show yourself kindness. It’s okay to say no when you need to and recognize your needs, even when they go against your original plans. You’re only one person! The holiday season can feel like a marathon—resting when needed will help you finish the race.
#3 Maintain regular self-care practices
- It’s up to you to define self-care—it looks different for everyone. Getting enough sleep, sticking to movement routines, keeping up with religious or spiritual practices, and fueling your body with foods that make you feel good are just a few examples. Maintaining a routine can help this hectic time feel a lot more normal.
#4 Understand and acknowledge grief
- The holidays can be a particularly tough time if you’ve lost a loved one. While this year’s celebrations might look different, it can still be a beautiful time to remember those we’ve lost and connect with those still here. Check out this blog with more tips and resources for managing grief this holiday season.
#5 Treat yourself!
- Don’t forget that you deserve to enjoy the holidays. In the midst of attending events, decorating your home, shopping, and baking, you ultimately deserve to feel joy. Gift yourself something, even if it’s simply time to relax or do your favorite activity. This will go a long way.
- The holidays are meant to be fun, enchanting and memorable, and these simple tips can help that be more true. As always, if the negative feelings become overwhelming, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re looking for a more concrete plan, utilize our “Coping with Holiday Stress Worksheet” here.
