The holidays: a time where we come together and relish the joys of life. A time of festivity and recreation. A time where feelings of elation, generosity, and levity are abundant. A time when we induce ourselves into a state of blissful caloric amnesia.
Despite our jocular expectations, we often forget just how exhausting and, on occasion, unfulfilling, the holiday season can be. Trying to meet our expectations, we over commit, over spend, over eat, and yet still feel let down. The holidays can end up feeling like a time of survival, rather than a time of celebration. Before the craziness begins, take a moment to review three quick ways we can make this time of year a little less strenuous, and a little more jubilant.
1) Make time for yourself: Why not start by focusing on yourself? While giving to others is the holiday theme, it’s also important to acknowledge that person you see in the mirror every day. Do this in whatever way feels right. Whether it’s buying yourself a treat, scheduling some alone time amidst the myriad of parties and events, or just making sure to spend time with the ones you love. Whatever fulfills you, find the time and make room for that. The better we care for ourselves, the more we will have to give to others.
2) Manage expectations: Not to sound like a real Ebenezer, but let’s be honest, nothing is perfect in this world and the holiday season is no exception. Therefore, it’s prudent to manage our expectations. I’m not suggesting that we look at a glass and see it as half-empty, but rather, that we accept the fact that life is imperfect and that things aren’t always going to play out the way we want, no matter how hard we try or believe they can. If we can accept this fact, we can approach life, and the holidays, with a sense of realism. In doing so, we’re conscious that everything may not be perfect, but that’s okay. As a result, we will be less likely to feel a sense of deflation, or unfulfillment, if that gift or event didn’t quite live up to what we anticipated. Then we’ll be more inclined to appreciate what’s in front of us, rather than bemoaning what should have been.
3) Balance: It’s important to maintain some semblance of moderation and balance through the course of a celebration. While a little indulgence (something we’re all guilty of) is traditional, we should still maintain a thoughtful approach and moderate our intake, to some extent. After all, too much of anything is never a good thing. I certainly am not suggesting we should completely abstain from our favorite holiday goodies, but rather, let’s enjoy them thoughtfully. Our body and mind will certainly appreciate the consideration.
No matter how we choose to celebrate the holidays, we should take time to appreciate the little things. Spend time with those you love and be sure to grant yourself a little relief along the way. Thanks for reading, and may you have an incredibly safe and fulfilling holiday season.
About the Author: Erin Gavigan is a graduate from Central Michigan University where he received a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration while double minoring in Leadership Studies and Gerontology. As Implementation Specialist within R3, he plays a unique, multi-faceted, role that involves onboarding new business, leading special projects, and being the coordinator of state-specific rules and regulations for both workers’ compensation and telehealth. Erin has held previous roles in R3 that have included general business development as well as coordinating many of R3’s disruptive event management services. He’s an avid guitarist, loves to exercise, and enjoys sampling the many craft beers Grand Rapids has to offer in his spare time.
