This time of year, it can be hard to get everything we need to do done in a day. The added stress, lack of time, and other factors play heavily into our mindset, causing us to feel overwhelmed.
December can be a tough month for many. I know it is for me. I’ve lost two close family members in December, one on Christmas eve, and am speaking from experience. It took me years to feel as if I could celebrate and enjoy the holidays. I know many people have similar experiences.
Here are a few tips to try to get through…
Make sure to take some time for self-care each day. Even if it’s just 10 minutes a day, it can be helpful. Whether you meditate, exercise, sit in a hot tub, play a game, or some other activity that you enjoy, find something that takes you away from the hustle and bustle.
Focus on the positive. I know, believe me, I do that this can be difficult. But I have found that there is something good about every single day. You just have to look for it. When you find it, dwell on it instead of all the negativity. This small change can make a huge difference in both your physical and mental health.
Motivate others with a positive word or action. Spread your enthusiasm and watch it grow in others. Help them to have a better day. This will make a difference for both of you.
Reaffirm that relationships are more important than material possessions. What is your goal in life? Money and things are only temporary. Focus on your most important resource, your relationships with your loved ones.
Have a positive vision of your future. No matter what your current circumstances are, try to look forward to what may come. This is huge. Set yourself up for success.
Smile and/or laugh. It’s infectious and can really turn a day around no matter what the circumstances.
Do not let someone else’s negativity bring you down. This can be hard. If you live or work with someone that is negative, it can be exhausting to be around them. Remove yourself from the conversation, or turn it around by smiling, laughing, or passing a compliment on to that person.
Get back up again. If you fail or fall, get up. Try again. Try another tact. Laugh at yourself. Keep going, no matter what.
And finally, make sure that your family and loved ones know how you feel about them. Life is far too short to wait. Don’t. Saying “I love you” doesn’t hurt. It feels good to express our feelings. It feels good to know how someone feels about you and they feel good knowing how you feel about them.
One more thing: wear a mask. COVID 19 is spreading exponentially. Show your care and love for others by wearing a mask as often as you can. This protects them and you. A vaccine is months, if not more than a year away for most of us. Let’s all do our best to save lives and stop the spread.
I wish all of you a joyous and happy holiday season! Stay true to you, spread your love, and stay positive!
Rae
Rae McDaniel 