As the holiday season sparkles on the horizon, I find myself reflecting on the hustle and bustle it often brings. This year, I've decided to approach things differently – to focus on simplicity, self-care, and shared joy. I want to share with you my personal plan to reduce stress and make this holiday season more enjoyable, not just for me but for everyone around me.
1. Embracing the Potluck Spirit: One of the biggest holiday tasks is, undoubtedly, the cooking. This year, I'm all about potlucks. By sharing the cooking responsibilities, not only does it ease the load, but it also brings a variety of flavors and stories to the table. Each dish, lovingly prepared by a friend or family member, adds its own unique touch to our gathering.
2. Delegating with Love: I've learned that delegating isn't just about offloading tasks; it's about trusting and involving others. This year, I'm asking each family member to take charge of a specific holiday task. Whether it's decorating, setting the table, or managing the holiday playlist, it's a way to involve everyone and make the preparations a shared joy.
3. Simplified Gift-Giving: Gone are the days of frantic last-minute shopping. This year, I'm keeping it simple with heartfelt, handpicked gifts. I'm also a big fan of gift exchanges where each person buys for just one other person. It's more personal, less stressful, and honestly, a lot more fun.
4. Taking Time for Myself: In the midst of holiday preparations, it's easy to forget about self-care. This year, I'm setting aside time for myself – be it a quiet coffee in the morning, a leisurely walk, or just some time with a good book. These moments of solitude are my way of recharging and savoring the season.
5. Creating New Traditions: This year, I'm looking to create new traditions that focus on togetherness and relaxation. Maybe it's a movie night with classic holiday films, or a fun family holiday game after Christmas dessert. It's going to be about creating memories, not just checking off tasks.
This holiday season, my wish for myself – and for you – is to find joy in the simple things, to share the load, and to take time for ourselves. Let's make this time of year less about doing and more about being – being together, being relaxed, and being joyful.
From my heart to yours, let's embrace the true spirit of the holidays.
Wishing you all a peaceful holiday season,
Lisa
1 comment
Thank you. I needed this. We do the potluck here. Best idea. We have a very large family that I host.