I’ve talked to a lot of people in recent days who are juggling all the demands of the festive season on top of their already busy schedules. Far from enjoying themselves and looking forward to Christmas, they’re just adding to their stress.
So, as my Christmas gift to you, here are my steps to help you enjoy Christmas:
1. Please Yourself!
Start with knowing what you want. When you return to the daily routine in the New Year and people ask “How was your Christmas?” what do you want the answer to be? Take a minute, put yourself first and acknowledge what would make the next two weeks ideal for you. This is your priority. Let others in your life know what would make the difference, to make this the best Christmas you’ve had so that they can contribute.
2. Plan.
Now that you know what you want and what your priorities are you can get organised. Many people find that their stress levels are low simply by being organised and feeling that everything is under control. Remember to be realistic.
3. Prepare.
How much can be prepared in advance of when it is needed? Doing things in advance of the deadlines means you avoid the stress of a last minute dash. It allows you to take time over what’s important. Your plan shows you what needs to happen, preparation helps you keep ahead of the game. Advance preparations allow you more time to enjoy yourself later.
4. Postpone procrastination.
If you’re anything like me, you may find yourself distracted. We put off things that need to be done while we do the little tasks that could actually wait and which aren’t moving us towards that ideal Christmas. Instead of procrastinating with distractions, keep an eye on what you’ve chosen to do and stick to the plan. Whatever you do now, check that it’s taking you a step nearer to having what you want (not further away). Making progress is both rewarding and motivating.
5. Pass to someone else.
It is OK to ask for help! Is the voice in your head stopping you from delegating some of the plan? What would happen if you asked somebody else to take on some of the tasks? Who can you involve?
6. Pause.
When you feel the stress button being pushed, stop. Take a few slow, deep breaths and relax. Choose to take a moment. What was it that pressed the stress button? What can you do about it?
7. Protect your “me” time.
Taking time out to rest and recharge the batteries is a key part of keeping the stress levels low. When you have some time for you, you’ll come back to your “to do” list with more energy and motivation than if you neglect yourself and try to soldier on. Enjoy doing all those things that are important to you. This is payback when you get to enjoy the fruits of your labours.
Whatever you plan to do over the festive season, I wish you a very happy, relaxed Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
