Tips to help you enjoy your holidays

Thanksgiving is coming up, and then things really kick into high gear with Christmas coming up fast.  It’s a crazy time of year.  One that we should be relaxing and enjoying, but for many people, it’s just stressful!

Here are a few tips to help you relax and enjoy your holidays…

•             Nobody’s perfect, and that’s okay

•             You don’t have to do it by yourself

Get other family members to help out, it can be fun to involve everyone

•             Cheat – yes, homemade is wonderful, but if it’s going to stress you out – buy the pie

•             Go easy on the alcohol, yes some is fun, but too much can be embarrassing

•             Shop early, and buy a little bit at a time, that helps spread out the financial crunch

•             Take time to reflect on the reason for the season

•             Deep breaths, in – out, nice and slow.  Don’t lose your temper

•             Rest, you deserve it

One of the highest expectations

during the holiday season is connecting with family and friends, and for many, this can be the biggest cause of stress. How do I have great conversations with people without the tension and drama that usually comes during this season?

• Start with a mindset that is positive and open. Go into every conversation and situation expecting the best, creating connection and good memories. If your mind is set on being positive, you will look at each comment and situation as an opportunity to further your relationships.

• Employ excellent listening skills. Listen not only to the words that people speak, but the emotion behind it. (This is called “content and intent.”) Pay attention to body language and facial expression, both a huge part of what someone is telling you. Learn to ask questions out of curiosity as opposed to a specific intended result for you.

• Be an encourager. As you look for the positive in each situation and conversation, comment on the positive aspects you observe. Add value to people by encouraging them to be their best. As you listen well, what do you feel and observe that the other person needs positive reinforcement on, or a word of encouragement to continue.

Finally, remember - it’s not about you.

Make every interaction about “we, not me.” We were made to be in relationship with other people. When we make the conversation only about ourselves, we miss an opportunity to deepen our connections with others. So, focus on others and make the conversation more fruitful for both of you.

Eliminate stress and drama this holiday season.

Be positive. Listen well. Encourage others. Focus on “we.”