Need some survival tips for getting through Christmas and New Year’s? We’re with you – and share our condolences.
This may be a little different than the survival articles you may be used to from us. Nevertheless, we feel it’s something that may prove helpful to you – especially during this stressful and at times complicated holiday season.
The fact is it’s “the most wonderful time of the year” for many. However, for many others, the holidays prove to be a very stressful and tumultuous time of year. And, whether you’re happily enjoying time with your family (or are secretly hoping for some time alone), we all could use some advice for getting through this busy season in one piece.
Thankfully, I’ve got a list of…
9 Survival Tips For Getting Through Christmas & New Year’s
Don’t Have Too Much Fun At The Office Party
It’s easy to go overboard at the office Christmas party… especially when it’s an open bar. However, although you might have had a rough week/month/year, taking it out on the alcohol likely isn’t going to help. That’s because too often people can go overboard on the drinks – and completely embarrass themselves (as well as their boss and coworkers) in the process. Tone it down this year by having one drink (and plenty of water) and mingling with your favorite coworkers. It may seem less exciting, but the lack of alcohol may save you months (if not years) of regret.
Stock Up On Your Favorites
One of the best parts about the holidays is that, once Christmas is over and done, things start popping up at huge discounts. Now’s the time to stock up! No matter if it’s technology, survival supplies, hunting gear or otherwise you’re likely to score some deals on post-holiday gear. And this can only help you if you end up in an SHTF situation.
Have Realistic Expectations
Most people have a tendency to have over-inflated expectations around the Christmas season. Essentially, they long for and seek to create the “perfect” Christmas. Unfortunately, this “perfection” is not reality, and is ultimately a letdown when things don’t go as planned. Instead, it’s important to keep in mind that the purpose of this season is to rest, relax and have fun with family and friends. This doesn’t necessarily mean lavishing your loved ones with overly expensive gifts, or cleaning/decorating your house to the nines in the expectation that you’ll have the perfect Christmas party. Instead, cherish and love the people around you for who they are and what they bring – themselves. Appreciating what IS – rather than being sad about what ISN’T – is one of the best ways to be present and fully enjoy the holiday season.
Stop Trying To Do Everything
Even if you’re the host of the Christmas party, that doesn’t mean you have to do it all yourself. Instead, lower your pride and ask family, friends, and other attendees to help bring part of the meal (like snacks, desserts, etc,). You can even get the kids to help. The key here is to keep you sane – and that often means sharing the workload. Plus, it often turns out that combined efforts yield greater return (and more delicious treats) than individual efforts alone!
Moderation Is Key
The holiday season seems to boast that “more is more” and “excess is king.” Unfortunately, anyone who’s ever eaten too much knows that excess often leads to misery and deflated expectations. Instead, the key to the holiday season is often moderation. Drink alcohol and soft drinks in moderation, and drink plenty of water. Also, pay attention to your stomach when you’re eating… and when you’re full, put down your fork and stop. It may be tempting to gorge yourself on tasty treats, but it’s far better to stop when you’re truly full (and save yourself the remorse).
Hydrate
It may seem counterintuitive to many people, but hydration is actually the key to long-term happiness – not alcohol. Although drinking is encouraged over the holiday season, having a glass or two of water in-between each glass of wine, beer or liquor can help keep the buzz longer without going overboard. It’ll also help prevent that nasty hangover in the morning.
Get Some Shut-Eye
Drinking and eating can be a lot of fun, but you’ll need to be intentional about getting enough sleep in-between each day. Too many people are sleep-starved during the holidays, and end up doing things they’ll later regret. So, even if it’s just for a few hours, get some quality sleep while you can.
Take Some Time Off
If at all possible, try to plan out your holidays so that you’re not being forced to work immediately after Christmas or New Year’s. Many people try to cram in both parties and work, and one ultimately suffers (usually the latter). Plus taking some time off work allows you to rest and rejuvenate, giving you energy for the workdays to come. If it’s not at all possible to take time off work, ask if you can work from home. That way you can get more sleep, and there’s less pressure to be a top performer.
Surround Yourself With Those You Love
This is probably the #1 thing to remember. No matter your circumstances, the holidays are no time to spend in isolation. If you don’t have family in town, call up some friends and ask if they want to go out for a holiday meal (or ask if you can join them at their Christmas/New Year’s Party). Also, don’t turn down any invitations for holiday gatherings – this is the time to meet new people and celebrate the year! It may be a little awkward at first, but it’s far better than being alone over the holidays.
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