I write what I need to read. And today I need to read about lightening my Christmas load of to-dos.
I need to read this because I chose to overdo last Sunday. I gave myself the goal of wrapping 4 presents. Once I got started I just kept going. I wrapped them all – or, at least, everything I had already purchased. By the time I was done I was stiff and tired. I hadn’t worked out which is important to my state of mind. I hadn’t prioritized my own needs of exercise, healthy eating and relaxation. I’m sure I’m not the only person who does this.
That’s not going to happen again this holiday. Here are my thoughts on things I’m going to do to lighten my Christmas load.
- Do an act of self-care – Find something that makes you feel taken care of and do it for yourself. Maybe it’s a Starbucks coffee, a hot bath or a manicure. Get takeout you want. This weekend I will find some time to do some reading with a gingerbread latte to keep me company. And I will make sure to exercise first in the morning.
- Look at your list and delegate – It’s okay – you don’t have to do it all. And you shouldn’t. Pass some tasks to your spouse. Or order online and pick it up. The extra cost is worth your sanity. I will be passing some tasks to my husband and some tasks to my daughter.
- Look at your list and eliminate – Take another look at your list. Is there something you can just choose not to do? A couple of years ago I took mailing cards off my list. I’m fortunate to keep up with most people on Facebook and that’s enough. I use some shortcuts like cinnamon rolls that come from a can and simplifying some menus. This year, due to COVID, I’m spending more time at home. COVID eliminated some of the traditional community events I like to go to. While I miss them, it’s also okay.
- Ask for help – Maybe there is someone who would love to have a holiday event with your kids while you do something for yourself (see self-care above). I enjoyed when my niece and nephews used to come for a sleepover at Christmas time. Ask for help when hosting an event. Make it potluck. Order food in.
- Add something that makes you smile – There are many things above that make me smile. But I also like to do things that bring back happy childhood memories like watching Charlie Brown Christmas and Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Pay attention to those little thoughts that cross your mind– make a plan and do them!
It’s the holiday season. Enjoy it.
