Do you find that your patience often run short during the holidays? There are so many more things to do, more places to go, more people to see, and more gifts to buy (and wrap..and pay for…). Our already full to-do list is that much more crowded in December.
One solution is to simplify.
Consider what is really important to you. Your faith? Your family? A few close friends? That’s where you should concentrate your holiday time and energy. Don’t get pulled into activities you don’t really have the time, energy, or spirit for. Between end of year work activities and the rest of your life, prioritizing is key. And simplifying helps you do that.
How many gifts do you really need to buy? I love the “four gift rule” for children. Giving your kiddos twenty-plus gifts doesn’t prove anything to them and likely makes your holiday shopping and bill paying way too stressful! If you’re still exchanging gifts with adult siblings, think about a family meeting to eliminate that practice. Everyone might breathe a sigh of relief!
Do you buy gifts for co-workers? Do you really need to? Or, would a handwritten note of appreciation and, for a select few, a gift card to a local restaurant do? Maybe a team potluck or a simple breakfast of bagels and cream cheese would be fun. It really is the thought that counts when it comes to your work team. If the team really wants to do more, suggest a voluntary (and anonymous) collection to donate to a local charity instead of a gift exchange among the co-workers. Help your team keep it simple, too.
Lastly, on the topic of gifts, do not go into debt. If you can’t afford it, do not buy it! Those credit card bills will come in January, guaranteed!
Have you found yourself in a hurry, lately? Maybe trying to cram a quick shopping trip to crowded mall on your lunch hour? While driving today, I saw two car accidents near shopping centers, one involving injury. I recently witnessed unsafe driving in parking lots and neighborhoods alike. I’ve seen harried sales clerks trying to help impatient customers. I have felt the stress myself of trying to do more than is really necessary, and asking myself, “Why?”
Impatience is a direct result of the stress we take on during this time of year.
What else can you do?
Take a deep breath. Reflect on what is causing your stress. Then think about what you can control. Next, consider making the necessary changes so your stress lessens and patience returns. For most of us, this season is really about love, peace, and joy. Whatever holiday you celebrate, keep what is most important to you at the center of all your activities and you will enjoy the holiday season.
Simplify. Be patient. Enjoy. At work and at home.
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Here are some additional tips from WebMD: Reducing Holiday Stress.
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