🤪 SAVE YOUR SANITY THIS FESTIVE PERIOD 🎄 by Celeste Williams (Self Collective Co)

For many, the Christmas period comes with its own unique set of stressors that can drain us and impact our mental health. Here are my top 5 tips for enjoying the celebrations whilst keeping your sanity.

ACT LIKE A SCOUT/ GUIDE AND BE PREPARED

I don’t know about you, but I love a good list. Make a list of things to be done and tick them off as they get done. If it helps, you can create a timeline for when each task needs to be completed by. Avoid leaving things to the last minute. Purchase presents early and prepare anything you can ahead of time.

RELINQUISH CONTROL

Much as you may want to, you cannot control everything.

The first step in relinquishing control is to delegate. Delegate tasks to free up some time and reduce your mental load. Maybe have everyone bring a plate so that not all the catering responsibility falls to you. Look at your list and decide what can be divvied up and who to (can you involve your little munchkins here).

Like all things in life, things can and will go wrong. And Christmas is no exception. Make a conscious decision to not sweat the small stuff.  Things happen. Let them go.

Most importantly, your enjoyment of the festive period is up to you. The only person you can control is you. Don’t let the behaviours of others influence how you enjoy your celebrations.

MANAGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Quite often these ‘big’ occasions come with high expectations. Maybe you’re trying to recreate something special or a memory from the past. Maybe you’re hoping that it will heal a rift. Whatever your expectations are, they stop you from being in the moment and enjoying what is happening around you. Lower (or even better remove) any expectations for the day and avoid being disappointed if things don’t go planned. Enjoy what is and savour the present moment.

RESPECT YOUR BOUNDARIES

You don’t need to be a doormat to keep the peace. People pleasing can be a source of great stress. Avoid this stress by holding firm your personal boundaries. Assert your boundaries calmly. Most people will understand and if they don’t, do not engage, remain respectful and walk away.

Another way to respect your boundaries is to say “no” without guilt You do not have to accept every invitation. If the thought of attending another celebration leaves you feeling exhausted or overwhelmed, then listen to what your body is telling you and politely decline.

TAKE TIME OUT

In the lead up to the silly season and during the festivities, it’s important that you take time out just for you. These acts of self-care are vital to managing your stress and preserving your sanity, create a list of sanity savers – things that help you relax and bring you calm. Schedule in regular breaks whenever you can and pick and activity from your list to enjoy.

So there you have it! My top 5 tips. I hope you find them useful and that you enjoy a happy and peaceful festive season.