‘Tis the season to be jolly, but for some of us, the holidays can be a time of stress and anxiety. Several things can contribute to this holiday-induced hassles, including family dynamics, financial pressures, the general hustle and bustle of the season, and the pressure to make everything perfect.
If there’s a sense of foreboding as Christmas draws near, remember that you’re not alone. There are ways to manage your stress and make the most of the season, and here are some of the things you can do to help put you at ease.
How to Ease Your Christmas Anxiety
Tip #1: Set Realistic Expectations
The holidays are a time when we often set unrealistic expectations for ourselves. We want everything to be perfect—the perfect tree, the perfect gifts, the perfect party. But the truth is, things rarely go according to plan. There are always going to be hiccups along the way, and that’s okay!
One of the best ways to ease your holiday anxiety is to set realistic expectations. Don’t try to do everything—pick a few things that are really important to you and focus on those. And don’t be afraid to delegate! Ask your family and friends for help with the things that are important to you.
Tip #2: Set Boundaries
One of the best ways to ease your Christmas anxiety is to set boundaries. This means setting limits on how much you’re willing to spend, how much you’re willing to do, and who you’re willing to see.
One way to help ease your Christmas anxiety is to set boundaries. Decide what you are and are not willing to do. For example, if you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen cooking a big holiday meal, then don’t do it! There are plenty of other ways to show your loved ones how much you care without going overboard.
Remember, it’s okay to say no. You don’t have to do everything yourself to have a successful holiday season. So, don’t be afraid to set some limits and make things a little easier on yourself. Your loved ones will still have a wonderful Christmas, and you’ll be able to enjoy it a lot more too!
Tip #3: Take the Time to Practice Appreciate and Gratitude
When we focus on the things we’re thankful for, it’s easier to let go of the things that are causing us stress. So, take a few minutes each day to think about the things you’re grateful for. You can even write them down in a journal or make a list to refer to when you’re feeling anxious.
Tip #4: Try to Change Negative Subjects to Something More Positive
If you’re feeling stressed about Christmas, try to focus on the positive aspects of the holiday. For example, if you’re feeling anxious about spending time with family members who you don’t get along with, try to focus on the positive aspects of the situation.
Maybe you’re looking forward to the delicious food that will be served, or the opportunity to catch up with other relatives who you don’t see very often. Whatever it is that sparks your excitement for the holidays; it’s best to shift your focus on those things and don’t sweat the other details.
Tip #5: Don’t Give In to Food Shaming
The holidays are a time when many of us face pressure to overindulge. From office parties and family gatherings to holiday potlucks and cookie exchanges, there are temptations around every corner. And if you’re trying to eat healthily or lose weight, it can be tough to resist all of the deliciousness.
If you know you’re going to be attending a holiday party or gathering, take a few minutes to plan ahead. Choose a light, healthy dish to bring, and eat a small meal or snack before you go so you’re not tempted to overeat. If you do indulge in a holiday treat or two, don’t beat yourself up about it. Enjoy the food, and then get back on track with your healthy diet.
The Bottom Line: Making Your Christmas a Happy One For Yourself
The holiday season is a time when we often put extra pressure on ourselves to make everything perfect. We want to make sure our loved ones have the best Christmas ever, and we want to create memories that will last a lifetime. But in our quest to make everything just right, we can often end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed out.
The holiday season is a time to focus on the things that are important to you. So, if something doesn’t go according to plan, don’t sweat it. Just remember that the holidays are about spending time with loved ones and enjoying yourself. Everything else is just icing on the cake.
If you’re looking for anxiety therapy in Calgary, you’ve come to the right place. At Virtuous Circle Counselling, we specialize in helping people overcome their anxiety and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
We know that everyone is different, so we tailor our anxiety therapy to each individual. We’ll work at your pace and help you to overcome your anxiety in a way that works for you.