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The holidays are coming, and I want to know, how are your stress levels?

This time of year can feel like one big event after another. There are parties to attend, spaces to decorate, gifts to buy, and outfits to choose from – all of which equal planning and money. 

Overall, this is just MORE. 

More on the calendar, more to pay attention to, and…

MORE TO EAT!

The good news? You don’t have to let the holidays get the best of you! You can make simple plans now to prepare and ensure this season is full of things to do and moments to remember. 

Here are my tips for you this season to avoid the holiday stress: 

Define Your Expectations.

What expectations do you have for those around you or the experiences you will have this holiday season? Often it’s our expectations that can set us up for failure if they aren’t properly set, but now is the time for you to adjust them. Before that family member comes over, before you attend that event, do the mental prep work now to be prepared for the moment. Hope for the best, but also, lower those expectations. 

Is there a dish you always get stuck with but hate to make? Make change. Find a new dish. Communicate that you will be bringing something else to the table. 

Dreading washing all of those dishes after dinner? Bring out some paper plates and utensils – it will be okay! Let go of any self-imposed expectations and give yourself some grace.

 

Decide what matters most.

When you look back on this holiday season, what do you want to have experienced? Who do you want to make sure you spend time with? Decide now what matters most and get those things on the calendar. 

If spending time with family is most important, then plan now to spend less time running errands and communicate with your people that you want to share wonderful holiday experiences with them. 

Do you want to use your time this season serving others? Start researching today! Search for places, organizations, or events where you can serve, and be intentional about scheduling when you will go. 

Once you decide what matters most and make a plan to prioritize, the rest will fall into place. 

Keep it simple.

When it comes to gifts and experiences with your loved ones – keep it simple! I once heard this phrase regarding gift giving – give something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. 

In a season of littles at home? Great! Start now. Is your family made up of older kids or adults? Well, maybe now is the time for some change. The holidays are for being together, finding connection, and making memories. Keep your plans simple and focus on what truly matters… remember point two? 

Schedule time for margin.

Lastly, don’t wait until the beginning of the year to plan for rest. Make sure you are scheduling times of rest as you go through this season so you can recover along the way. It’s okay to let some things go and exercise your “no anointing.” That’s right, practice with me right now and say the word “no.” I’ll wait. 

How did it feel? It may be a bit hard at first, but trust me, the more you practice, the easier it will get. Remember, with every “yes” you give also comes an implied “no” to something else. 

The time is now, my friend; what are you waiting for? Now is the time to unplug from the demands of the world and connect with those you love. Focus on creating memories. Remember that your life is a gift! You were created by love for love. Keep Jesus in front of you this season, and anytime the stress levels start to rise, look up. 

I would love to know in the comments, what do you love about this season? 

Here’s to doing more of what you love! 

 

Highlights from Today’s Episode

  • Define your expectations
  • Decide what matters most
  • Keep it simple
  • Schedule time for margin

Related Resources 

  • The practice of gratitude is a powerful tool, especially to combat holiday stress. Watch my video on Growing in Gratitude. 
  • The holidays can take us down a comparison spiral, but don’t get stuck in the Comparison Trap! Enjoy my latest video on how you can stop comparison. 

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Other Stuff to Check Out

Let’s Talk!

  1. What is one expectation you can release this week? 
  2. Decide right now – what matters most to you for this holiday season? 
  3. Where is one spot you can schedule in margin right now on your calendar? Write it down.

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