Thursday, December 10, 2009

What happend to Norman Rockwell?

We’re supposed to be happy and blissful, so why are so many people out there shopping till they are exhausted, arguing over the decorations, dreading the fifteen office parties they have to attend? What’s wrong?

 The holidays are a strange thing time- they are supposed to be wonderful but very often we feel stressed during the holidays, and then we feel stressed that we feel stressed when we should feel good- and that only makes us more stressed!!

This happens for two reasons- the holidays are a time when our daily routines change and very often expectations for what the holidays are supposed to be are irrational. Combine this change with the irrational beliefs and you have a formula for stress.  So some simple tips for keeping stress in check-

 1. Be realistic about the holidays. The holidays don’t’ have to be perfect to be joyous. If you expect perfection- you’ll be disappointed.

 2. Cut yourself a little- slack- its ok to feel stressed, or angry or sad during the holidays. You don’t have to be happy the whole time.

3. All things in moderation- too much shopping, too many parties, and too many added holiday responsibilities will only make you more nervous, anxious and stressed.  Keep things in moderation by prioritizing- you can’t do it all- so make a list of everything you think you need to do and then read it out loud- if the list sounds impossible- start crossing things off until you feel you can handle it.

 4. Finally take care of yourself during the holidays you need to eat right, sleep, and exercise.  You must make time for yourself.  Being sick and stressed will not make the season brighter.

 We all want the holidays to be a joyous time. By having realistic expectations and not overextending, you will keep your stress levels in check.

No comments: