Don’t be too hard on yourself. That includes making too many plans if it feels overwhelming. Making too many plans if it doesn’t feel nurturing can instead make you feel depressed and irritable. Do what is best for you and don’t over schedule yourself. Keep time to relax and reflect.
Stick to what makes you happy. Don’t commit to engagements that are stressful or depressing. Same goes for the company you keep. Make plans with others that bring you happiness!
Don’t expect feelings of sadness to disappear just because it is the holiday season. Many of us believe that we should only feel happiness at this time of year, and can cause ourselves even more depression if we set unrealistic expectation for ourselves. Honor your feelings. There is nothing to feel ashamed about.
Don’t expect the holidays to feel the same way that they felt when you were a child. Many people experience disappointment and depression because they cannot match the feelings from past years. Be realistic. You are a new person and in a new place since you were once a child. Embrace the changes and create your own traditions and good times.
Don’t over indulge. People use the holidays as an excuse to drink and eat more than is healthy for themselves. Alcohol is a depressant and eating too much of heavy foods can also make a person feel lethargic and depressed. Try to remain healthy and make smart choices.
Take a break or a nap! Step away from the holiday buzz and pressure if it feels that way. Go for a walk, watch something unrelated to the holidays, take a nap! Don’t allow yourself to drown in the festivities if they are too intense for you.
Do something for others. Giving to others and good deeds are proven to elevate moods and make us feel good. Volunteer for others who are less fortunate.
Plan activities that do not cost a great deal of money. Spending can cause added stress and prevent you from enjoying the seasons. There are plenty of low-budget activities offered this time of year, so take some time to find some and enjoy without breaking the budget!
Be thankful for the things you have day-to-day. Don’t lose sight of the positive things in your life just because the holidays may not meet your every expectation. The time of year will pass, it will only affect you as much as you allow it to. Keep things that make you feel happy throughout the year and keep them in sight.
Remember that this too shall pass. This time of year. Seasons change, the winter too will melt away into spring, and the sun will rise again.
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