We’re entering the Holiday Season…It’s a time for joy and being with family and friends. But, what if…You’re anxious about the holidays?
For some of us feeling grateful during the holidays may be challenging. There may be a family member who always manages to push that emotional button that sends the whole day into a crazy emotional bliss. Or, if at the end of the year, you take an inventory of the past year and think to yourself that maybe you should have accomplished more.
If you’re feeling anxious in anticipation of the holidays, don’t fret.
Keep these tips in mind…
These worries we have about anticipating the holidays are just that…worries about what may come. Mark Twain is quoted as saying, “I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened.”
What if, for this holiday season, we thought of positive outcomes of the holidays? Yes, trying issues may surface. If your family members live far away, maybe the holidays are the only time you get together. I suppose that can be a good thing and also not so good. Perhaps once a year you’re ready to share everything that’s been on your mind in the past year (a.k.a. unleash your wrath.)
I strongly advise you not to do that. That will only hurt you. (I know from personal experience that it never ends well.)
A better holiday season
Here’s my suggestion for the holiday season…
Before you set out on your holiday adventures, take a few minutes each day to engage in a “Thoughtful Moment” for yourself. Perhaps even write down your thoughts. You can think of the basic needs and be thankful for what you have.
How about for this year, be thankful for who you are.
Think of all of your positive character traits and how they got you to be the person you are today and, conversely, think of what challenges you’ve been through that have made you who you are today.
Getting started
Words to spark your thoughts and get you started:
- Courageous
- Helpful
- Kind
- Ambitious
- Thoughtful
- Good Listener
- Persistent
- Caring
- Loving
- Joyful
- Kind-Hearted
- Compassionate
- Patient
- Bold
- Daring
How about writing down your gratitude words to yourself and bring them with you wherever you go. If you get into an emotional bind, take out the piece of paper and breathe in the positive words and thoughts about who you are.
I couldn’t end this blog entry without reminding you to find the funny. During stressful times is when we most need levity and laughter. Find the joy. Laugh even when you don’t feel like it.
And, remember, Life is Improv! You can plan all you want. And, yet, there may be something that goes unplanned. Go with the flow. Be in the present moment.
Feel the joy of being you.
About the author: Julie Ostrow is the First-Ever American Laughing Champion and Humor, Laughter, and Improv Coach. She coaches groups and corporations how to use humor, laughter, and improv techniques to improve communication, connection, and creativity. www.GoFindTheFunny.com