It’s almost Christmas and New Year’s Eve and it’s the time for joy and family, traditions and fun, food and presents, decorations and sparkles but it can also be a time of stress, guilt, and sadness. I think what I’ve accepted is you can and mostly like will have a mixture of both. Life is complicated and wonderful!

 

 

I think that in this season of giving we need to remember to give to ourselves too. Self-care is always important but especially this time of year. I think that we put too much pressure on ourselves to make the holidays perfect. We put too much pressure on the time of year, trying to do too much or please others. It’s easy to forget that you’re in control. You  don’t have to accept the stress that others are putting on you. You don’t have to feel guilty for not giving the perfect present or not going to every event. The holidays are for you to enjoy. If a family member brings up a conversation that makes you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to remove yourself and do something that calms you down. It’s okay if you can’t afford the most glamorous presents or can’t volunteer or donate to charity right now. It’s okay if a holiday tradition or two skips a year. Do what you can and let go of the rest.

 

I hope your holidays are happy and safe! I hope that you enjoy traditions, make new ones, and follow your own heart! I hope you give all you can this time of year and all year round!

 

Share your traditions or holiday struggles you’ve overcome below.