Anyone else simultaneously wondering how it can already be November, and also why this year is never-ending? I don’t get it either…but that’s how it feels.
With that in mind, I keep coming back to this: I’ll do whatever it takes to get through this year.
Don’t get me wrong, friends…I don’t mean “survive” in that we’re all super miserable and life sucks and we will not enjoy one minute of this holiday season. Actually, I’m not super miserable, life is good (thanks for asking) and I’m excited for all the Hallmark movies I can watch. And I also realize that surviving 2020 isn’t the end of the story…because January 1, 2021 isn’t gonna feel much different than today.
But…still. How do we survive/make the most of/lessen our anxiety during these holiday months?
Here’s what I’ll be doing (and feel free to join on in!!)
1.Put up your decorations (and take them down) whenever your heart desires.
There’s no rules for this right now. It’s November, and if you want Christmas from November through February…it’s cool with everyone. Maybe next year we’ll go back to judging people for when their trees go up and come down. :o)
2. Set aside time for yourself.
Mental health matters so much right now. We’re all experiencing something that is just so different and at times, really challenging. So be sure to schedule time to relax, recharge, and take care of YOU.
3. Consume uplifting content.
Music, books, social media, podcasts…whatever you listen to, read, or watch should give you energy, not suck your soul dry. It’s so easy to get stuck in your negative thoughts, but you don’t have to. So choose your content (and your thoughts!) carefully.
4. Make gratitude a priority.
It sounds silly, but finding the small joys in such a hectic time is a REALLY big deal for me. I have a gratitude journal, Brandon does, and even Harlyn does. (Actually, if you want to read about helping your kids find gratitude, you can find that HERE!) We know that reminders about a great cup of coffee, super fuzzy cabin socks, or a fun at home game night can make a big difference in how we feel and act.
5. Find balance.
You’ll still find me running and getting my exercise in for these fall/winter months, but you will ALSO catch me with a holiday cookie in hand. Similarly, I’ll be getting my work done, but you better believe I’ll be on the couch on Sunday afternoons watching Hallmark movies. Actually, that reminds me…I need to have Brandon get our treadmill out from storage and then I can run while I watch Hallmark!! It’s important to focus on wellness but also enjoy our lives and indulge sometimes!
6. Make the most of it.
Even if 2020 hasn’t been your best year ever, decide right now to make the most of November and December. Focus on something that IS good. Enjoying extra time with the kids? Make it even more special as we roll into the holidays! Don’t let the struggles and hardships ruin the fun and happy moments. There’s plenty of special times ahead…as long as we choose to see and embrace them.
