We’re moving quicky into a month-long holiday season; observing Thanksgiving (gratitude) first, followed by the celebration of the birth of Christ (giving and receiving). For years, many of us have felt a sense of exhaustion and stress surrounding what should be a special time. Whatever Christmas means to you, it’s celebrated for being a time with family and friends. But for most of us, it can feel like a race to get through so we can collapse on the other side.
It’s time to reframe the Christmas Season and I’m offering some suggestions on how to create a mindset to help you (and me) move through this time with a better plan in place. The Goal: To be present. I don’t know about you, but I have spent too much time scurrying, frustrated and tired through a time when I just really wanted to be present to celebrate my WHY for the season and my people. Put your plan in place now:
I have spent too much time scurrying, frustrated and tired through a time when I just really wanted to be present
Establish your WHY
Your why is important because it defines everything you’re doing. It is the motivation behind preparation and focuses where you’ll invest your energies.
Get your family on board. Talk about the WHY for the season with your family members. Ask them what are the 3-4 most important activities/traditions they want to experience between Thanksgiving and Christmas. You might be surprised.
Establish your WHEN
Begin planning now. Stock up on baking items in November. Clean out the fridge. Organize your pantry. Make your gift lists and start shopping. Create menus.
With your family, fill in the calendar for the holiday season. Make sure to block out time for doing the things you love – such as decorating the tree, inviting friends over for coffee and treats, date night with a spouse.
Establish your WHO
I want to keep people the main focus. To do this, I have to make margin so I can be present and available. Make a list: who who needs your attention and love during the holiday season? Who have you been meaning to meet up with for coffee? Who in your neighborhood could use a plate of cookies? Add these things to your calendar and make your plans now.
I don’t want this season to feel like something I have to “survive” and “get through.” Like many of you, I want to celebrate the birth of my Savior. I want to celebrate with people whom I love. I want to be a light in a dark world. The choice is to be present. This Christmas season is worth preparing for.
