Understand What Helps You Feel Good
Sometimes we overlook the simple things that can lift our mood and make us feel good. Before you dive into taking care of others, take a few minutes to make a list of the things that help you feel good. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy, just a list of activities, foods or even people you can go to for support. Whatever resonates with you from that list is what you need to focus on during the holidays. When you take care of yourself and make sure that you have what you need, you are in a much better position to give to others. We can only give from what we have, and if our cup is empty we are not able to give anything.
Don’t Be Scared To Ask For What You Need
It’s important to remember that all of us have needs, and it’s not selfish to ask for what you need. If you are feeling stressed, you likely have needs that aren’t being met, and this can lead to you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, and/or anxious. Although it can be scary to ask for what you need, it’s important to remember that it’s not your job to take care of everyone else. It’s everyone else’s job to take care of themselves.
Set Boundaries
The key to having a happy holiday season is to not be overwhelmed. You can do this by setting strong boundaries that are respectful to yourself and others. For example, if you have kids, but you need some time to rest and recharge, don’t feel bad about setting boundaries so you aren’t constantly attending playdates, sports events and social get-togethers. You have to recharge your batteries so that you have enough energy to give to others. When your batteries are low, you can’t be of much use to anyone. You don’t have to be a hermit, but you do have to guard your time and energy so that you can use it wisely. If you find that you’re always the one being asked to attend things, try to be upfront about your situation. Let others know that you love being with them, but that you need some time to recharge as well.
Take Time Out Alone
If you have ever felt really stressed, like you’re just under pressure all the time, you might have heard of people going on a “silent retreat”. A silent retreat is when you go away to a quiet place and stay there without talking to anyone else. This idea of taking time out alone can apply to the holidays, too. It might be helpful to go away for a day, or even just a few hours. You could go to a coffee shop and read a book, or go to a park and sit on a bench. Take the time to be quiet and alone, but do something that you enjoy to make the time feel more productive.
Don’t Be Afraid To Just Be By Yourself
Being alone doesn’t mean that you don’t want to connect with people; it means that you’re taking the time to be quiet and build your own strength. Maybe you want to meditate or do yoga for a few hours every day until the holidays are over. You can also just sit quietly and read a book in a corner of your home. You don’t have to do anything to be alone, but you can still spend time being quiet and strengthening yourself. Being alone, without any distractions, is one of the best ways to reset and get back in touch with yourself. It’s a great way to take care of yourself during the holidays.
Bottom line
Taking time out for yourself is more important during the holidays because your energy is needed by so many people. You can’t give if you don’t have anything to give. Before you dive into the holidays, make sure that you’re taking the time to do the things that help you feel good. It’s important to set boundaries so that you have time to recharge your batteries. It’s also important to take time out alone so that you can rediscover who you are. Lastly, don’t be afraid to just be by yourself so that you can reflect and recharge on your own terms. Remember, it’s not selfish to take care of yourself. It’s necessary.
