It's hard to believe we've made it to the year's final fireworks; the holiday season. With Thanksgiving passed and Christmas around the corner, time is limited but activity is high. It's the perfect time to exercise BOUNDARIES. If you can do it during this time, You CAN do anything! Relatives, children, work wrap-ups, events, etc will ALL be working overtime.
The B-word (boundaries) can sound limiting and definitely not synonymous with holiday cheer BUT unsurprisingly, it IS the gift of peace; the BEST gift of all. During gifting/holiday season, the desire to please and good intentions are at an all time high. Many of us are willing to go out of our way for the sake of pleasing; even if it wreaks havoc within our being. Stress can creep up in even the happiest of times; yielding residuals that may take more than a day to unwrap. So, What are we to do?
Exercise your "NO"
"No" That's it. That's all.
You want me to elaborate, but, I won't AND neither will you. It isn't necessary.
Create Pockets (or places) of Peace
Pineapples!!! Ha, ha....
We all have moments where a reset and regroup is more than necessary. More over, finding opportunities to recharge is the key to feeling good as you progress through the season. Shopping? Grab a coffee, stop and have dessert... Prepping for Guest? Pause and watch a movie or have a nice bath... Visiting family? Choose to do store runs and take your time or plan "break way" activities...
These pockets are hard stops when you need to replenish or recharge your batteries!
When in a place and you feel the impending need for space, planning is always key. Three things I Iook for when attending an event:
the exits- When it's time to go (or take a breather), you're azble to move as swiftly as needed.
my partner (if applicable) - if you are fortunate to have someone that you can almost never get enough of going with you, communication on creation of recharge stations, exit strategies and special signals/words can liberating by simply knowing you have a safety net.
solo activities- Often, parties/events will have activities that can be done alone. Slipping away from the mingling to get a few minutes to yourself every so often can create a more enjoyable experience; minimizing social overload.
Keep it simple
Most of what we do is not required but feels necessary to appease possible, impending silent judgement. The reality is, you have to be ok with you. This sentiment nullifies what you feel others may obligate you to in the name of "holiday cheer". Being intentional and creating meaningful moments weigh far more than stretching yourself thin, diving deep into the sea of overwhelmed... For many, showing up is all you can handle this season. Guess what? That's ok! Bring a dish, get gift bags vs. wrapping, sit a party out, etc. Your gestures have to mirror your peace.
Take care of yourself this holiday season!
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