Essential handy hints for stressful times
The festive season is upon us and whether you are celebrating or not, things tend to speed up and become a little more frantic and stressful. So here are a few of my favorite suggestions to ease the load.
Expectations: Try to tailor your expectations to the situation you find yourself in. This may seem pretty obvious but we can tend to build ourselves up, believing things have to be a certain way and if they’re not, it is a disaster. Most people who are sharing festivities will need to compromise – everybody has their own idea of how things should be. Equally if you’re alone you need to recognize this and plan accordingly; cater for yourself and give yourself the sort of day you want. Do not give yourself expectations that can only result in failure and disappointment.
Share the load: No one is required to take full responsibility for an event that involves several people. Ask for help, whilst recognizing that if it is given, others may have a different take on how to accomplish it.
Be kind: It is important to look after yourself and others. Things are bound to go wrong so try to see the bigger picture. If you are feeling overloaded say so. Being self-sacrificial is not good for you or for others. You will become stressed or unwell and this benefits no-one in the long run. Know your limits and try to stick to them.
Frame of reference: Everyone, even those who grew up together, has a different take on the “best” way to celebrate. Try to be relaxed about how things roll out especially if others are volunteering to do certain tasks. Embrace difference and you will get a broader more diverse experience which brings its own rewards.
Take time out: It is important to safeguard your energy at this time of year. Remember to keep up your regular exercise and good eating habits. Try not to overload your body by eating or drinking too much as this will tend to impact negatively on your health and mood. This is particularly important at stressful times. Also, you need regular sleep and some time for yourself. A good habit (for life!) is to stop all screen activities for an hour before bed and ban electronics in your bedroom – just saying!
Cherish those around you: Relatives can be demanding or tiresome but they’re also your family and you’re lucky to have them. Make sure to see good friends over the holiday period if you need to dilute the effect of your family gathering. If your home becomes too claustrophobic or too busy, take yourself for a walk.
Set limits: The festivities don’t last long but make sure that you don’t become a hotel or a restaurant over the holiday period. If you only want people to stay two days, say so. If you don’t want anyone to stay, say so. If you don’t want to cook, ask for help, buy takeaway or have bread and cheese! Set your comfort limits and stick to them. If you don’t, only you will suffer.
Laugh: Don’t take things too seriously. Most things won’t matter a week from when they occur. If they will, then say so. Try to inject humor into situations, it can lighten the mood and release tension. There is usually a funny side to most situations and laughing is good for you.
