Content provided by the Health & Wellness Team at GBS Benefits
The month of December always seems to vanish in the blink of an eye. It is often packed with events, performances, and end-of-year deadlines. Consider taking a moment at the beginning of the month to evaluate the next few weeks. Identify stressors or potential triggers and how you will manage these obstacles. Plan out how you will focus on the things that matter to build a meaningful and memorable holiday season.
Here are a few tips on how to focus on what matters this holiday season.
Pause and reflect on previous holiday seasons. Which memories stand out and why? Most often, it’s likely when you were mentally present for the relationships, conversations, and activities shared with loved ones. Ensure you are engaging in genuine conversation with those around you and avoid getting so carried away with your to-do list or technology that you forget to participate in meaningful connections. Engage in meaningful conversations by checking in with your loved ones. Show genuine concern and empathy for their struggles. Be a positive influence and offer support or a listening ear when appropriate.
Spend time volunteering this year. Give your time and energy in new ways by volunteering at local retirement homes or recreation centers. Reach out to those who might be lonely this time of year and offer a smile or friendly conversation when possible.
Remember the “why” behind your celebration. Do you celebrate for spiritual reasons, historic reasons, additional family time, or to keep cherished traditions alive? Bring intention to your actions and find ways to draw the focus back to your why. Consider asking others why they celebrate.
Build relationships by sharing your favorite holiday traditions. Spend time sharing and participating in traditions with family, friends, and co-workers. Traditions help strengthen relationships and add memorable experiences to the holidays. They make us feel part of something larger as we pass them down to our own children.
Plan and prep so you can enjoy quality moments. Avoid last-minute shopping so you can soak in the atmosphere without feeling stressed. Create a list of what needs to be accomplished and cross off one thing each day leading up to the holiday. Preparation is key to a stress-free celebration!
Avoid the temptation to make everything perfect. No matter how much you plan, something is bound to go wrong and will likely contribute to a fun future memory. Try to take holiday plans in stride by relying on your sense of humor and not taking yourself too seriously.
Soak in the moments with loved ones and focus on what really matters during this year’s holiday season!
