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As December unfolds, the twinkling lights and festive cheer pull us into the whirlwind of the holidays. While this can be time of celebration and gatherings, it can also bring a range of emotions. From love and happiness to stress and sadness, know you’re not alone. If holiday-related stress is on your mind, here are five ways to keep the holidays happy and healthy.
1. Manage Holiday Stress
Family gatherings aren’t always easy. Some may be mourning the loss of a family member, spending the holidays alone or hosting gatherings. It’s important to remember that everything doesn’t have to be perfect. Sometimes, our expectations can lead to stress and frustration. Ask for help, prioritize, delegate and be flexible.
Know and respect your limits, and if necessary, clearly state your boundaries. In fact, setting boundaries allows people to develop deeper and more intimate relationships. Check out this podcast to learn more.
If the festive frenzy goes up in flaming yule logs, step outside, take some deep breaths or pull aside someone you trust. If you’re not in your own home, leaving is always an option.
2. Be Present
Take a moment and think back to your childhood...Can you remember all the presents you got over the years? Most likely, the answer is no.
We remember experiences we have and how they made us feel. That’s what brings us back into moments in time, not necessarily what presents we got, how many or who gave what. Take the pressure off and do the best you can to enjoy the moments that matter. Set a gift budget and stick to it. It’s OK to be open with family and friends about gift limits.
For more tips on how to budget and save this holiday season, check out Navigating the Festive Wallet.
3. Celebrate Togetherness
If you’re apart from loved ones this year, keep your traditions or start new ones and celebrate virtually. You can still have fun and connect with people from a distance, even if it looks a little different. There are many activities you can do together over video chat, such as:
Also, reach out to local friends or family. The holidays don’t need to be exclusive to family, and many are welcoming others during the holiday season. “Friendsmas” is becoming more popular as a way to bring together friends, neighbors and colleagues who may be living alone or away from their family.
4. Strengthen Relationships
Remember that relationships are what matter, not all the other “stuff.” Use this time to be your authentic self with those around you. Show others that you appreciate them with thoughtfulness and kindness. Actively listen and immerse yourself in conversations with others, as this shows you care about what they’re saying. Indicate you’re listening through nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language. It’s often said that it’s not about what we say, but how we say it. And above all, take advantage of our holiday shut down period (if applicable) for self-care time.
5. Know that NGCare is Here to Help
No matter how this holiday season unfolds, you’re not alone. Take advantage of Northrop Grumman resources such as NGCare, which provides in-the-moment confidential support 24/7. Call: 800-982-8161 to speak with a GuidanceConsultantSM or visit GuidanceResources® (Web ID: NGCare) to view articles, videos and more.
Written by: Emily Gabaldon