It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and whether you’re channeling the Grinch or feel more like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, it’s important to remember that the holidays can be tricky to navigate. They often bring a mix of social gatherings, high expectations, and emotions. To help you sail through the season with ease, I’ve put together a few tips to help you survive the holidays.
1. It doesn’t have to be all joy and cheer.
It’s okay to have mixed feelings about the festivities. Whether you’re feeling nostalgic, sad, or anxious, know that these emotions are perfectly normal. Each of us has had different experiences throughout the year, and it’s important to honor those feelings. Show yourself and those around you love and compassion, especially if they’ve had a challenging year. That’s the best gift you can give yourself and others.
2. Choose your company wisely.
In some families, respect and tolerance may not always be in abundance. If that’s the case, it’s okay to spend the holidays with the people who truly make you feel loved and supported. Remember, you are the most important person in your life, so give yourself the gift of surrounding yourself with those who uplift you. Sometimes, the family we choose brings the most joy and peace.
3. Ask for help if you're hosting.
If you're the one hosting a holiday gathering, don’t hesitate to ask for help! Just because you’re hosting doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Whether it’s setting up, cooking, or cleaning, sharing the responsibilities will make the celebration more enjoyable for everyone—including you.
4. Thoughtful gifts over expensive ones.
You don’t need to buy pricey presents to show you care. Handmade or baked gifts can be just as meaningful. If you’re not into baking or crafting, consider gifting experiences instead—like offering free babysitting to your sister or organizing a picnic or hike for your mother-in-law. The memories you create together will last far longer than any material gift.
5. Politely disengage from heated debates.
With all the opinions floating around this time of year, it's easy to get caught up in polarizing conversations. If a relative insists on pushing their viewpoint and you find yourself stuck in an endless argument, politely say, “I guess we’ll have to agree to disagree.” Then, either change the subject or find another conversation where you can connect with others in a more positive way.
No matter what you celebrate—be it Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, or the Chinese New Year—I wish you peace, love, flexibility, and compassion as we head into 2025.
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