11 Dec 12 Days 12 Ways to Survive the Holidays

We all know that the holidays can get overwhelming. From holiday parties, last minute shopping to family gatherings and feelings of loneliness, for some, these can make one feel anxious or depressed. This should be a time of happiness filled with laughter. With the help of these simple steps, you will be able to survive the holidays.

1. Forget the past. We all tend to bring our family member’s bad experience to the present moment. You should put the past behind you, and think of this family member as someone you just met and start over. You will realize you will have more patience.
2. Rediscover the Child Within. Find ways to “ooh” and “ahh” again! Think back to your favorite childhood moment during the holidays. Was it playing games, singing Christmas carols, making a snowman, drinking hot chocolate, or writing a letter to Santa? Whatever it may be, you should do it now. Just go for it.
3. Shopping. Make a list and check it twice. Start shopping early if you can. Wake up early and try shopping on the weekdays to beat the crowds and feel relaxed.
4. Pause. Take the time to consider your decisions before responding right away to family and friends whether positive or negative. This will help you not react with a ‘knee jerk’ or you can indulge in the moment. Take a moment to think of the worst possible scenarios.
5. Budget. Budget. Budget. Put some thought and creativity into your gifts. Pick a price range and stick to it. If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it! Make a list and stick to it!
6. Avoid Alcohol. This may be your numbing solution, or a way to laugh. But this is not the way to go. Avoid alcohol.
7. Watch What You Eat. We tend to eat more during the holidays without really watching what you eat. Remember that food affects your mood so be careful.
8. Avoid the Urge. If you find it very difficult to avoid the relative problem, try volunteering, take the younger kids to the park or on a walk or tend the fireplace. Find things that keep you busy.
9. Holiday for Two. Make a date with a partner to discuss beforehand how to survive the holidays together. Stay calm!
10. Short and Sweet. Minimize your time with your family. Make other plans so that you can leave early or arrive late to keep from spending the whole holiday with them. The less time you have with them, it will be earlier to be on your best behavior.
11. Dig Deep. Make a list of positive reasons to go and spend the holiday with your family. Pull out the list whenever you feel things going bad and need a reminder of all the positive things.
12. Tomorrow. If all else fails, this will soon be in the past.