You'll see that most of the stress you experience results from the expectations you have on yourself and your interpretation of events.
Christmas and New Year are around the corner! In the Philippines, this is our most extended season.
Many are looking forward to Holidays for many reasons, such as Christmas breaks, time with family, bonuses, shopping for gifts (for those who love to shop), parties, and presents.
According to Andy William's song, Christmas is.....
"The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!"
However, this most beautiful time of the year becomes the most stressful time for many people. And to remain calm and at peace which ironically is the message of Christmas, becomes a challenge.
There are so many things that make this season very stressful and painful for some. Among these are family gatherings, gift buying, and coping with loss or loneliness.
How will you claim back the peace and joy during the Christmas Season?
1. Family Gatherings. Christmas is the time that you may look forward to because you will see family members that you only see once a year. However, some may also dread this time because it could also be when old wounds will resurface or disagreement occurs.
Turn off the stress switch during family Gatherings.
Recall and write down the triggers that cause undesirable feelings and spot the pattern. Then, create a plan on how you can ditch those triggers.
Give compliments to the members of your family. If you think that your sister or cousin is so negative and could not find good in them, think more and see one thing nice that you can tell about them. Who knows, your compliment will start that fantastic relationship you will have with them.
Practice Self-Control. When you are in a heated conversation, step back, disengage, take a deep breath and make an effort to remain calm and gentle.
Also, simplify what you will prepare during family gatherings. You don't need to cook the favorite dish of every member of your family.
2. Gift Buying. If you love to shop, gift buying might be fun for you. However, for many,
this causes a lot of stress. Just imagine the busy, crowded store, the long line, and the
money ( that maybe you don't have) to spend on presents.
Turn off the stress switch in buying gifts.
Simplify gift-giving. Stop obsessing about finding the perfect gift for your loved ones. I remember going to the mall to figure out what my family members, friends, and co-workers want for Christmas. It takes all the fun out of shopping.
Finding the perfect gift can be daunting because what we think is perfect may not be
perfect for them. Just remember that people are generally appreciative of whatever gift they receive. They don't expect you to go to every corner of the Earth to find them a spectacular gift.
Save time and money by skipping the wrapping with your creativity! You can give gift cards or coupons like a free night of babysitting, one day of yard work, or other unique things.
To escape the long line, shop online. Shopping online will save you time and may save you some money because there might be special offers or sales, and you can compare the prices of the item you want. Some also have free delivery.
3. Coping with Loss or Loneliness. For so many people, losing someone during the
Holidays can be very painful and sad. The Christmas season, for many reasons, will
intensify that feeling of loneliness, especially when you are alone. This is the season
to be with your loved ones, but it will become the saddest time of the year when they
are not there.
I am an immigrant in the United States,
I can still recall my first Christmas in the United States without my family. It was so lonely and sad. I feel so alone even if my husband was with me. I missed my parents and my siblings so much and the way we celebrate Christmas in the Philippines.
Turn off the stress switch in coping with Loss or Loneliness.
Spend Christmas with your friends that you trust, and you love to be around. You can invite friends over to your place, or you go to their place.
Use the power of technology. Connect with your loved ones using video calls.
Help Others. You can go out and volunteer. During the Holiday Season, there are a lot of places that need volunteers to help them feed families who are in need during the Christmas season.
Express Gratitude. Remember your loved ones that you lose, those who pass on to another life or who left you. Recall how they made you feel better and what you learned from them, and say words of gratitude.
There are several effective ways to overcome stress during the holidays. The key is to determine what's causing your stress so you can plan and eliminate it. In the end, you'll see that most of the stress you experience results from the expectations you have on yourself and your interpretation of events.
Also, we may never forget the real reason why we celebrate Christmas- God's greatest expression of love. He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to become human and dwell among us, and died on the cross to save us.
How do you cope with Holiday Stress? Please share
Is your stress already affecting your relationships and health? We can help.
Schedule your complimentary session here. The Free ‘Break up with stress’ 1:1 coaching session is free for women who want to experience inner peace and calm.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, everyone!
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