Is the Merry Missing from Your Holidays?
December 9, 2020Is Perfection Causing Stress?
December 9, 2020“Ah, come on, dad, this could be the miracle that saves The Simpsons Christmas! If TV has taught me anything, it’s that miracles always happens to poor kids at Christmas. It happened to Tiny Tim, it happened to Charlie Brown, it happened to The Smurfs, and it’s gonna happen to us!” ~ Bart Simpson
Even though the movie marathons are starting soon, holiday movie classics DO NOT reflect real life. If that were true, it’d always snow and never be unsafe to drive, kids would unwrap every item on their wish lists, and everyone would be wearing the same kind, color and brand of sweater. Get real! The holidays aren’t perfect….because nobody is perfect!
Want to make this holiday season a lot easier on yourself and your family? Make reasonable expectations:
1. Do your best to stick to your regular family routine. Changing your schedule to fit in holiday activities and traveling can be tough on you and your kids, so try to keep things as normal as possible. Try to keep bedtimes and mealtimes the same even when you’re away from home.
2. Talk with your family about schedules. Take time to explain each day’s activities to your children and let them know what you expect from them. Together, choose activities that you really want to do. You can’t do everything, so you might let your children pick their favorite things for your family to do. Do the things that you all will enjoy the most, and then say “no” to extra activities.
3. Talk with your family about finances. Even young children can learn how to budget for gifts. Urge them to get creative and make presents for family members instead of buying them. Receiving a thoughtful gift from a child can be a memorable holiday moment. Many families concentrate on special things they can make or do for each other.
4. Don’t let unexpected events ruin the holidays for you. Be adaptable and flexible. You can help yourself and your children relax and enjoy the holidays for what they truly are: a time of joy, celebration, and peace with friends and family.
At In Step we want everyone to have a happy, safe and healthy Holiday season. If you or your family are feeling anxiety, stress, depression or other issues that you would like some help with give us a call. We offer solutions for Individuals as well as Groups.