As the holidays begin, it is easy to get overwhelmed and feel like everything is chaotic and out of our control. Here are 3 things you can do this holiday season to keep your peace:
1-Say No: when making decisions, think about "if I’m saying yes to them am I saying no to me?"
So if you say yes to one more social gathering, does that mean you say no to the only 3 hours you had for yourself this week? Another way to think about it is if I say yes t them, how much is it costing me? For example, if you say yes to making the turkey for dinner, is it costing you hours of work, being tired at the party, feeling overwhelmed and resentful because no one offered to help? What if you say saying no, can be the peace keeping answer?
What saying no can look like:
1st example, “Thank you for the invitation, I am not available to join this time but I would love to get lunch with you after the holidays. Enjoy, and let me know how it goes.
2nd Example: I will be catering the turkey from here ____ (insert restaurant or grocery store that has ready to eat turkeys that you just pick up and warm up). I can pay for it this year but lets decide after dinner who will make it or bring it next year.
Imagine how different you would feel after saying no in the above ways and choosing yourself: probably empowered (maybe uncomfortable too because you are practicing a new skill), happy that you are prioritizing yourself, and peaceful because since you did not exert yourself, you have the emotional capacity to interact with your loved ones and continue to build healthy relationships.
2-Prioritize Self-Care: it can be easy to get busy with friends, family, and a long to-do list but you have to take care of yourself first. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, eating nourishing foods, and moving your body or resting as needed. You are deserving of a peaceful holiday and you cannot pour from an empty cup. If you want extra pampering, booking a massage or facial and be a great addition to your self-care.
3-Have a mindful morning and evening routine: you can start your day with breathing techniques, affirmations, or reading something inspirational. This will help you start your day with the right energy and mindset. To prepare for sleep, you can try journaling, coloring, planning the next day, or reading something comforting. Remember that you have to prioritize yourself and this is a great example to set for family members.
I believe in you! Let's be responsible for our peace this holiday season.
I hope you have a Happy Holiday and an amazing New Year! Wishing you a peaceful holiday season full of self-love. Thank you for being part of Calderas Counseling,
Carla Calderas
P.S. Here is a bonus for Choosing Yourself
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