Gifts? Family? Ever feel that Christmastime is holiday madness?
Between my sister being upset about the broken Snoopy statue and multiple trips out for Black Friday shopping, the holidays can be a lot. It makes me think, “is my focus in the correct place or… have I gotten off track?”
Holiday madness can be overwhelming or enjoyable…with the right frame of mind. So, let me share a couple of hints with you (your family will thank me!).
5 Tips to Survive Holiday Madness
1. Show Grace
In other words, pray that you and your family will exhibit the kind of grace for one another which rivals that of Jesus on the Cross. (I hope you feel it welling up inside of you this very instant). The comments, idiosyncrasies (like my brother walking laps around the kitchen), the varied expectations… sweep them under the rug, wipe the slate clean.
2. Give
To put it differently, shift your focus to giving. The Spirit of Christmas and the Holy Spirit walk together during the holiday season. Therefore, give to someone in need. Open your eyes to not only the physical needs but the emotional needs of those around you.
3. Choose Healthily
Against all odds (and this is a huge one) try to do a few healthy things for yourself. I know, treats and sweets rule the day. But, there are ways to make a few healthier choices that will improve the way you feel. Go for a walk. Or, say, “No” to that extra cookie… have an orange instead (is my family the only one who has Clementines out for every holiday?).
4. Take a Break
Break away if you need to. For instance, take 15 minutes to separate yourself from the holiday madness. Or, in the same fashion, go on a short trip to the store (but be ready to deal with THAT holiday madness) or to town to get away. Similarly, take a hike or a walk or hit the local gym. Believe me, making a little time for self-care will go a long way.
5. Meet with God
Spend time with God. For example, I have struggled to be more patient (it’s like arm wrestling King Kong). However, only God has been able to cultivate patience within (a modicum, I know, but still something). Hence, read a devotional or the Bible with your coffee. If it’s too noisy, read it aloud and share it with those around you. Pray alone or as a family. Remember, taking a quick few minutes to bring God into the mix will reap dividends.
So, unwrap the gifts! Play games with your family! Share stories! Love and celebrate together. And, use the five tips to alleviate the holiday madness if it creeps up.
🙂
Merry Christmas! Love, K.
Author, Ten Iron Principles
Thank you for your five tips! These are so helpful to alleviate some/much of the holiday stress that we unknowingly bring onto ourselves in this day of commercialism and craziness! I especially like the take a break one! Great pointers!
Being together is so very important. You have become your own person. All 3 of you. But we are all family. We need each other. Some day some of us will not be here. Need to appreciate each other now.
Great tips; for more than the holidaze I think Ms. Kelly. Thank you ma’am. And if I miss you; God’s blessings and Merry CHRISTmas young lady.
Merry Christmas!!!