Too often, our intentions to make our holiday season just perfect backfire on us, as we ask too much of ourselves. Here are a few common holiday errors to avoid.
Doing too much all at once – trying to get everything done at the last minute is stressful and usually compromises the quality of your contribution. Plan in advance so you can pace yourself properly.
Buying favor instead of earning it – be careful not to try to overcome shortfalls in your relationships by throwing money at them – remember those you care about, but no amount of spending will replace genuine loving support.
Carrying heavy packages – balance the weight of the gifts you carry around from store to store or to your car from side to side, and use wheels whenever possible, so you don’t lift heavy stuff in an awkward way and risk injuring yourself.
Arguing with your loved ones – they are under stress too, so be gentle and compassionate when interacting with those you care about. Never act in anger, pause and calm down and then respond maturely and appropriately.
Ignoring yourself to help others – much like you would put on your mask first in a plane before helping others, make sure you are at your best, since that is
the most likely way that you can be available to serve others the way you want to.
The holidays are a time for joyful celebration, not recovery from mistakes that can be avoided. Follow a few simple common sense guidelines, and avoid unnecessary pain and stress.