I used to overthink everything. My mind raced wildly and tossed around every contingency, every plan, every detail. The holidays were especially stressful for me, and I ruined them by trying to make everything perfect. I wanted every gift to be exquisite, the food to be fantastic and my decorations to be magical. I put so much pressure on myself and everyone else that I was miserable. Most years I ended up wanting to stay home and be by myself.

Be Present in Every Moment

This past Thanksgiving was a long day with a lot packed into it. As I sat in my flannel pajamas that night thinking over the day, I mused at how calm, unstressed and un-tired I felt. It surprised me because of how much travel and social engagement the day had included. I realized the secret, the magic of it was that I had stayed present in every single moment, never thinking about the next thing or the past. I just enjoyed every sight, sound, and person and never let my mind get in the way of enjoying myself.

Even my very long day with a lot of travel and social activity was amazingly calm, relaxing and enjoyable. I even had patience being around stressful people.

What a difference being in the moment makes!

My New Motto – It’s Good Enough!

My new motto since last year is now “it’s good enough.” When I start finding myself overthinking about making things perfect, I slow down, back off and allows less to be just fine. In the long run, no one will remember one meal, one decoration, one gift and it won’t matter that much how perfect it is. So now I strive for good enough, rather than perfect, and I feel so much more relaxed and un-stressed during the holiday season.

Don’t Forget to Use Your Vision Statements

If you have a particularly stressful holiday event coming up or just being around family makes you nervous, don’t be afraid to sit down and craft a helpful vision statement. Word it so that every minute of the get-together goes smoothly, calmly and you find yourself enjoying it. If you do this, you will be shocked at how it shapes your day and your attitude. Go into it with the right mindset of love, not fear, and you will have a wonderful time.

Listen to Your Inner Guide

The holidays are a hotbed of stress for many reasons, but they don’t have to be. When I find myself being judgmental of others or stressing about this party or that gift, I stop and listen to my inner self. The calming voice of grace helps keeps me in the moment and away from fear, anxiety and reacting too much. Sometimes I just need to stop the chatter in my own head, slow down and listen. The answer is always there in a kind, loving voice that cares about what is best for me.

Rely on Mindful Practices

The best way to really enjoy the holidays and take back the true meaning of togetherness and family is to lean on your mindful practices. Remember to make time for “you.” Meditate when you need it, use EFT for stress and anxiety, soothe your nerves with gratitude or helping someone else. These tips will help you to make this holiday season your best yet!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Dawna