Many people look forward to the fun memories, traditions, and relaxation time they associate with the holiday season. For some, this time also brings feelings of loneliness, depression, or exhaustion. Read these suggestions and be honest with yourself as you consider which ideas you can implement that might help you better be able to savor the season.
1. Don’t Expect Perfection
You probably won’t have a perfect holiday this year or ever. Believe it or not, it's rare that a holiday season plays out in a perfect picturesque way. Babies cry; family tensions occur; the food gets burnt. It’s okay! Laugh about it. When you can’t laugh, remember that you shouldn’t expect yourself to be wearing a jolly smile the entire season. Typical disappointments and bad days can have a much worse effect when your expectations are too high.
2. Be a Smart Eater
Whatever goals you do or don’t make about how to maintain weight and not overindulge during the holidays, make sure to at least commit to avoid social eating. Research shows that people eat significantly more in social settings. This can be tricky as food and company go hand in hand during Christmas time. Just make sure that if you put something into your mouth, you are paying enough attention to actually enjoy it.
3. Find Inexpensive Ways to Give
Money cannot buy true love or admiration. Consider all the ways you can focus on the spirit of giving this season besides spending. This can be through a smile, a phone call, a meaningful note, or whatever your talents allow you to offer.
4. Sick with Your Healthy Routines
For many, Christmas break means staying up late and sleeping in. With all the freedom and unpredictability of vacation, remember that routines can be grounding for you and your family. Whether that means reserving the same time each day for family scripture study or brushing your teeth with your spouse each night, be sure to be judicious when choosing which routines to keep and which to let go of during the season.
5. Take Time For Spiritual Rejuvenation
While Christmas is a season for family and friends, it is most importantly a season for worship. In the 2019 First Presidency Christmas Devotional, elder Patrick Kearon encouraged Latter-day Saints to take time to figuratively “kneel at the manger”. This requires quiet moments to reflect and ponder.
6. Assess Your Traditions
Traditions can be distinguishing and beloved parts of family culture. They can also get out of hand by becoming expensive or stressful. Make adjustments as needed. For example, you could spread out Christmas traditions across the season, rather than packing them in on the 24th and 25th.
7. Remember to Include Exercise
Exercise is particularly important during the holidays, as it helps you stay motivated to make other healthy choices. Your body will thank you for the vitamin D, fresh air, and chance to get your heart rate up amidst days filled with sedentary activities.
8. Turn Outward
You don’t need to be everything for everyone. However, you can set a good example and find more joy as you worship the Savior by following His example and serving others. Some of your best holiday memories will likely be when you were busy making someone else a little happier.