When I was in high school, I had the opportunity to live with a family other than my own. My family didn’t celebrate the holidays, and knowing this, my temporary family lauded the fun and festivity that awaited. They pumped visions of food, laughter and gifts, saying this would be my best Christmas ever!
I eagerly soaked in every element of the holiday, anticipating the Christmas Day they had described. However, from an outsider’s viewpoint, the family seemed increasingly stressed and rushed.
Amid making holiday cookies, trimming the tree, purchasing gifts, and cooking, there was more hustle and less happiness than the visions I had imagined.
It wasn’t my best Christmas ever. But from there, I did create the template that makes each holiday better than my last. By remembering the things that seemed to make our blood pressure rise all those years ago, I was able to keep all of the good and practically eliminate the not-so-good.
So here, I share with you seven simple tips to make this season, and every season, your brightest ever …
1. Create a mental space of gratitude. Rather than emphasizing shopping, focus on family and being grateful for all that is well in your life. With the myriad natural disasters that have plagued us of late, it shouldn’t be difficult to reflect on all that makes you blessed, even for those in tough situations.
2. Don’t let the commericalism trap you. Each year, ads for the holidays come earlier and earlier – this year it was Halloween! But you can choose to remember what the season is about. Create your own reason to celebrate and focus on that. Has someone you love been ill? Perhaps for you the season is relishing those who are here to celebrate with you. Recently changed jobs? Maybe it’s the gift of possibility you enjoy. Whatever you choose to celebrate, it doesn’t have to be about the gifts.
3. Limit the number of gifts you purchase. One of the greatest tips to make this holiday the best ever is to remember that it’s not about the gifts! Limit the number of gifts you purchase and the amount you spend on them. A splurge here and there is fine if done purposely, but overdoing gifts isn’t what the season’s about. Think of creative ways you can convey just how much someone means to you: Write a letter expressing heartfelt love to your sister, mother, husband or child and place it in a nice frame – you’ll be surprised at the reaction. Not only will you up your “connection quotient,” increasing the bond with those who mean the most to you, you’ll actually decrease stress, save money and create a more enjoyable holiday!
4. Give meaningful gifts. Choose items that provide an excuse to spend time with those you love – a new electronic “board” game for your teenage nephew; a book you’ll make time to read with his younger sibling; and an “everyday honeymoon” kit for your sister and her husband, complete with a couple of candles, massage oil and babysitting for the evening.
5. Make time to write. Studies show that writing reduces stress and will help you keep in touch – whether you connect with yourself through journaling or with loved ones through cards and letters. E-mail can’t convey your true emotion, and a phone call just doesn’t have the meaning of a heartfelt note. Don’t rush it – take your time and feel the words you’re writing. Make it a respite from your day rather than another chore to complete. Not only will it keep you connected, you’ll be amazed at how peaceful it can make you feel when you’re finished.
6. Plan a get-together and focus on the positive. Make a mental list of why you love each family member or friend. Every time you do, it will make you smile inside. Create an easy, fun and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy with lively music and simple, yet festive décor – like covering mantles and stairways with shimmery ribbon and wrapping art with coordinating holiday paper topped with bows. Plan well, and ask others to save the date, so you won’t have anxiety about the success of your event.
7. Keep entertaining simple. Holiday events don’t have to be formal. Use easy-to-clean serving ware or even fancy disposable utensils, plates and cups so your cleanup won’t take longer than the preparation. Make it simple by creating a hot cocoa and tea bar along with a plethora of baker’s delights. Get friends into the picture by having them bring additional desserts to add to the collection. Send each one away with a gift box of varied confections and a card with your wishes for a happy holiday. You’ve not only created a great event, but you’ve also given your gifts and holiday cards for the season!
Doni Luckett is CEO of Divine-
Basics.com, which produces lifestyle products to reconnect with moments that matter. Your questions may be addressed in the column by e-mailing enrichyourlife@divine-basics.com
