Hate it, or love it, the holidays are here for the next month or so. Here are some reminders about boundaries to keep your family and you thriving, or at least sane, in the weeks ahead:
• If you like to plan, block out time in your calendar to stay home or do what helps you to rest.
• Say no to events that will not refresh you, unless it’s an obligation that is necessary, like a work party that is important for your career.
• Just because something is good, doesn’t mean it is good for you right now. Again, saying, “No,” or, “Maybe next year,” is a totally acceptable answer.
• If the holidays hold spiritual significance to you, as they do to me, keep the meaning of the celebration central with a daily practice such as an advent calendar, lighting candles, or other meditation.
• Create a budget, and stick to it. List all the folks you want to purchase gifts for, and then add a bit extra for those who slipped your mind. Don’t forget people you value but don’t see every day, like hairdressers or teachers.
• Keeping those in mind who are in greater need can help keep the greedy gimmie’s away. Budget some money to give to helping organizations. And, keep your focus on being thankful for what you do have, not what you want. This is great to teach your children!
• Eat, drink and be merry, but in moderation. Keeping a healthy diet and exercise routine most days will leave you with more energy than taking every opportunity to indulge this month.
And, learn from what works and doesn’t work this year. Finding balance in our culture is always a process. Much peace to your family and you!
