Most people find December an insanely busy and stressful time of year. Preparing for Christmas, shopping, work demands ahead of a short shut-down, visiting relatives, getting the home ready for guests, overspending with online shopping, children’s parties, work dinners and gatherings and school events, the list goes on and on.
For many people, especially the compassionate and kind-hearted, Christmas can feel overwhelming. We want everyone to feel welcome, loved and included; we want the festive season to go without a hitch and any disputes or unrest are felt deeply within our psyche. Family disputes are felt more keenly at this time of year, and, if you are anything like me, there is a deep desire to try to fix or resolve these issues. In many cases though, the resolution of these disputes are outside of our control and leaves us feeling helpless.
Alternatively, it may be that you experience toxic interactions with people you have to spend time with at Christmas. This is never comfortable, and the reality is that often we cannot easily avoid these obligations, leading to discomfort and disharmony; but mostly unhappiness within ourselves.
For many others though, Christmas is a time for celebration, family gatherings and downtime. But this doesn’t happen all on its own and its likely to fall to the mum, wife, daughter or sister to create this magical time. Quite often, I think we really do work miracles!
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING AT CHRISTMAS is to try to find time and opportunity to look after you. Self-care is especially important over the Christmas season. If possible, find time to just be alone to recharge your batteries, if only for short periods at a time. Sitting in a quiet room and just concentrating on your breath (try the 4x4 method, inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds and repeat) can really help to rebalance your emotions. Take time out to read a book, or take the opportunity to relax in a long hot bath. Whatever works for you, try to find that time for yourself.
And remember self-compassion. If you are feeling criticised, or that you should be doing more, remember, you are enough and you are doing enough, just as you are. Be kind to you, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed.
Christmas-time and the period between Christmas and New Year is a great time for reflection. If you are thinking that things need to change in 2023, then take positive action now so you don’t have to think about New Year’s resolutions in January. You can go into Christmas happy in the knowledge you have made positive decisions about the New Year.
The best gift you can give yourself right now is to sign up for my 21 Day Live Life Stronger Programme, which starts on 10th January 2023. You will be fully supported to make all the right steps to overcome overwhelm and beat burnout, giving you the best start to 2023.
Click the link below for details of the 21 Day to Live Life Stronger Programme:
I look forward to seeing you there, but for now though, enjoy the festive season and remember always to be kind to you, first and foremost.