Holiday stress can bring many joys and celebrations. It can also bring headaches and heartache. Some embrace it and welcome the hectic pace; parties and gift giving, while others may hibernate and avoid it.
Learning to enjoy this time may not always be easy due to the demands of time, or money, or a feeling of loneliness. Each person experiences this time differently; some laugh and love, while others yell or cry.
For those feeling stressed during this busy time I’d like to share some tips and advice so that you can put stress to the test and deal with it. I use stress almost like an antibody and instead of letting it stop me in my tracks, I look at it as an energizer and develop a plan to conquer it.
Here’s 7 tips to Manage Through the Holiday Chaos:
- Welcome it and learn from it. Stress during the holidays may come your way so recognize it and make a plan to overcome it. Watch for the signs such as tension, fatigue and take time out so your brain and body can recharge.
- Focus on what you want to achieve. What you focus on is what you feel. Avoid focusing on what you don’t have and the things you are unable to control. Stay focused on what you need to get done, the joy you want to experience and what you have.
- Take a break and step away from your computer and emails. How many times a day to you check your email? If you set a goal to respond just 3 times a day it can reduce your stress. Take control and avoid allowing your in-box to control you.
- Be active! Physical energy and strength helps you deal with all that comes your way. Get out and move during the festive season. Aim for at least 20 minutes each day. This has an anti-depressant affect on you.
- Then sit back, relax and read. People who consider themselves avid readers for pleasure versus non-readers report less stress. Research has shown that reading allows you to escape and experience through the words on the pages and can give you perspective about your own life.
- Be of service and give back! Giving back has a positive effect on people. A few acts of kindness in one week can have a positive lasting affect for the weeks ahead. Volunteer and help those in need. Giving your time may be all it takes to make a difference in someone else’s life.
- Be grateful. Giving thanks and being grateful for what you have feels good. There is always something to be grateful for, so take the time to remember and give thanks for whatever that may be. It can be as simple as the breath you take.
Master the Mind, Master the Game
Corey