10 Ways to Thrive Through the Holidays

The holiday season is here. Do you dream that your holiday will be Magical? Filled with connection, celebration and joy? Or, are you with the other 45% dreading the upcoming weeks? Yes, one large study shows that 45% of us want to avoid the holidays altogether.

What is happening? I can only imagine that the increased stress added to already stress-filled lives that is the cause for so many people dreaming a holiday retreat. What I do know about this time of year is that many people get bogged down in "busyness," stress and old patterns.

Here are 10 ways to turn that around and create the holiday magic when you take really good care of yourself.

1. Give yourself a break. Perfection - even perfect happiness - just isn't possible. Let your best be good enough.
2. Make a budget for both your time and your money and stick to it. It really is the thought that counts.
3. Make conscious decisions. Get clear about what you really want to do over the holidays before compromising with others. If you don't have a clear plan and clear intentions, you might find yourself getting swept along by others' desires. Even if you compromise later, get clear first.
4. Shorten your to-do list. What do the holidays mean to you? For many, it's about family and friends and spirituality. If an item doesn't add to your holiday spirit, scratch it off.
5. Say NO when you want to. It is very liberating. Try it and see. It sounds simple, but too often the sense of obligation trumps desire. When faced with options, choose the one that would make you happier.
6. Limit obligatory activities. If you can't avoid certain events, limit the time you're there.
7. Take good care of yourself. The old standards help keep stress at bay: eat healthfully, exercise, drink lots of water, and breathe deeply. Schedule time for relaxation and fun.
8. Start early - like this week! To avoid a last-minute frenzy that can bust your budget, start shopping or making gifts now.
9. Ask for help. Reject any notion of martyrdom. The burden of preparations should not fall upon one person. The more specific you are in your request, the more successful you will be.
10. Establish new traditions. If you have experienced a major life-changing event, such as a death, break-up or divorce, consider doing something you've never done before over the holidays. Change it up! Get support.

If a glorious holiday season feels completely out of reach, you may experience the holiday blues. Many people do. Don't beat yourself up for feeling that way. Reach out for the support you need.

I hope these 10 tips help de-stress your holiday!