The holiday season can be a whirlwind of activity, stress, and overstimulation. As you navigate this busy time, I want to encourage you with some practical tips to find balance, handle challenging situations, and keep your focus on what truly matters.
Balancing All the Events
-
Learn to Say No: Lean into the discomfort of saying no. Remember, every yes to one thing is a no to something else. For example, saying yes to a party might mean saying no to a quiet evening with your kids. Unapologetically prioritize what aligns with the real reason for celebrating this season.
-
Take Breaks: Step away from overstimulating moments or environments when needed. Go outside, practice deep breathing, meditate on scripture, or set time limits for events to maintain your sense of calm.
-
Prioritize Time with the Lord: Don’t let the busyness of the season distract you from daily time with the Lord. Immerse yourself in His Word, pray, and bask in His presence—this is where true peace is found.
Dealing with Difficult Family or Friend Situations
-
Prepare Your Mind: Anticipate awkward moments and plan to respond with love, joy, peace, patience, forgiveness, and gentleness. These fruits of the Spirit can transform interactions.
-
Set Realistic Expectations: Don’t expect an annoying person to suddenly become delightful. Lowering your expectations can help you approach situations with grace.
-
Plan Engaging Activities: Avoid idle conversations that might turn negative. Bring a fun game or activity to keep things lighthearted and engaging.
-
Handle Politics Wisely: Avoid political discussions if possible. If they arise, listen calmly, redirect the conversation, or kindly express your desire to move on to another topic.
-
Resist Comparison: Avoid comparing yourself, your kids, or your career to others in negative ways. Embrace contentment and gratitude.
General Tips for the Season
-
Remember the Reason for the Season: This isn’t just a cliché—it’s a lifeline. Jesus’ birth offers us peace, new life, and a hope-filled future. Let this truth anchor you.
-
Reflect on Stress with Perspective: Consider the stress Mary must have felt as she carried the Savior of the world. Some of your current stressors may also be worth it in light of celebrating Jesus’ birth with loved ones.
-
Seek the Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Contemplate how the Holy Spirit can help you process your past, walk in peace today, and guide you for the future. (For more on this, check out my book “I Can Do Anything in the Right Pair of Shoes: Walking in Peace in a Turbulent World”.)
-
Practice Gratitude: Each day, focus on three things you are thankful for and share them with someone. Gratitude can shift your mindset and bring joy to others.
-
Shift Your Perspective to Serving: Look beyond yourself to those in need. Serve a family in need, visit a nursing home to sing carols, or volunteer at a food bank. These acts of kindness embody the spirit of the season.
-
Care for Your Health: Rest as much as possible, stay hydrated, exercise, and maintain your physical health alongside your spiritual and emotional well-being.
Praying for a Peaceful Season
May you walk in the shoes of peace this holiday season, anchored by God’s love and purpose. Remember, amidst the busyness and challenges, true peace is found in Christ.
