Well, here we are. Christmas is right around the corner we are in the middle of a pandemic and people are out of work. The stress we feel can be almost unbearable. We say to ourselves “I should do this”, or “I need to do that”. The reality is that either “this” or “that” could probably be kicked to the curb. The source of holiday stress is expectations, pure and simple. We have ideas in our heads of what constitutes a “Perfect Christmas”, and if all the pieces are not here, we feel disappointment.
Trying to achieve the “Perfect Christmas” places huge stress on us and others and is something which may be impossible to achieve. We expect to do this, that or the other, when maybe we should sit back and enjoy the beauty of the season. Instead of a huge meal, create a shared family tradition. Instead of “perfect presents” give the most amazing gift of all, your time. A Holiday Party? You now have the perfect excuse to limit or eliminate your entertaining. Drop the “should’s”, the “ought’s” and “must’s”. Replace them with a trimmed down list of expectations, and you will find that your enjoyment of the season will be greater and there will be less stress. Simple enjoyment of the season can be the greatest gift you give to yourself and others.
