More Fun, Less Stress
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The holiday season is already upon us, and for some, it may bring feelings of stress and anxiety. I empathize with your struggles and the sense of being overwhelmed, with little support and no enjoyment! 'Tis the season of love and joy, isn't it? However, as the hostess, you may find little joy and no fun, only hard work as you navigate gift-giving, meal preparation, and the lack of assistance from others. Here are a few tips to help alleviate your stress:
Tip #1 - Limited Cooking!
To alleviate the host's workload, each person should bring a covered dish or dessert. Ensure all family members are informed in advance about what to bring for the holiday meal. Communicate the dinner start time to everyone and advise that arriving late may result in food depletion. As the host, consider preparing the main meat dish and perhaps one starch and vegetable to contribute to the event. Encourage attendees to bring enough for their family and friends plus a little extra to assure there is enough food for everyone present.
Tip #2 - Assign A Game Captain!
One of the things I had to learn over the years is the value games bring into the mix of holiday gatherings. Chest, Diamino, card games, twister, and other games are usually a blast to have on hand. Get a volunteer to be the game captain. Make sure to have on hand the card tables out, move a spot in the living room or family room so everyone can play the game of their choice. Including the host, this gives the host a chance to have fun too. No game should be so intense that folks want to fight, just fun laughing, talking and enjoying each other is the goal.
Roal Dahl once said, "Life is more enjoyable when you engage in games."
Tip #3 - Learn to Have Fun not Anxiety!
I suffered from overthinking, over cooking, and overspending therefore holidays stressed me out. I would not stop to play games or enjoy my family as I should have. I worried about my house being cleaned and decorated properly for my guests. I not only made myself miserable I made my kids miserable too. They had to hear me fuss at them for not participating in the clean up process and I would have liked for them too. Now I realize it really not necessary. Eat, love and cherish the moments with family and friends. My kids are grown now, many of the elder family members are dead and I missed the moments of holiday laughter and cheer that I should have enjoyed. Don't the miss those special moments in your life.
Tip #4 - Let the Good Times Roll !
Transform your holiday gatherings into moments of joy with your loved ones. Instead of dwelling on negativity, establish a warm ambiance with your preferred music and a scented candle. Prior to your guests' arrival, immerse yourself in peace, happiness, and relaxation. Show unconditional love and refrain from making premature judgments. Allow laughter and tranquility to permeate the space as you enjoy a pleasant time together!
Tip # 5 - BE GRATEFUL -
Expressing gratitude and appreciation is crucial, particularly during the holiday season. Take a moment to jot down the things you are thankful for this year. Transform it into an enjoyable activity by turning it into a game where the individual with the longest list wins a prize. By doing so, you can reduce stress and enhance your holiday experience! One of the most valuable gifts to humanity is the ability to acknowledge and be grateful for what one has, as opposed to what one lacks. Showing gratitude and appreciation for what has been granted by the Lord is a significant blessing. Complaining is like an arrow piercing the heart, causing destruction to one's peace and contentment. Not everything may align with your preferences, but it is important to remain thankful regardless. Appreciate the presence of your family members, as one day they may not be around. Life is unpredictable, and it can be cut short at any moment, so cherish the moments spent together.
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