The holidays can be joyous, but also overwhelming. Here’s my list of holiday survival tips to keep you merry and bright all season long!
Start a New Tradition
Christmas will be different for many of us this year. Instead of being sad about what you are missing, start a new tradition. Maybe it’s watching a favorite Christmas movie, complete with popcorn, on Christmas Eve. Or, getting your family together on zoom and sharing Christmas morning tea and cookies. Whatever you choose, make it something special that you’ll enjoy even after the 2020 pandemic is over.
Find Peace in the Silence
During the season everything is merry and bright, except you. If you’re feeling blue, there’s comfort in knowing you’re not alone. Rather than trying to force the smile, take time to find peace in the silence. Sit in a sunshine spot, take a deep breath and listen to your heart.
The List of 3
Holidays are a busy time for my business and can go from bliss to stress pretty quickly. When I start to feel “full” it helps to take a look at my to do list and break it down into the top 3 things that need to happen. As I work through all 3 (and check them off like Santa’s ‘Nice’ list) I regain a feeling of calm from being back in control. Tackling big lists in small chunks helps take the overwhelm out of your day. (You can also reward yourself with a cookie after each task )
Virtual Crafting
Find a fun virtual event like wreath making or cookie decorating and enjoy a few hours soaking in the spirit of the season. You’ll have fun crafting and have a sweet decoration or treat when you’re done
Eat the Cookies
You know you love to bake this time of year right? But alas, the visitors will be few and far between this season so maybe you should skip it? Wrong! If you love to make cookies, make them. You can always give them to your neighbors (who aren’t making them either), and save a few for yourself. The joy of the small treat will do a lot more for your health than the calories….just don’t eat them all.
Watch a Holiday Movie
Do you have a holiday movie that just makes you laugh? Watch it! My favorite is “Trading Places.” It was filmed in my home town of Philly and had the perfect ending on a sandy beach (like all great Christmas movies should) . “Looking good Billy Ray! Feeling good Louis.”
Have a Re-gift Party
Plan an after Christmas zoom family/friend get together and do a White Elephant gift exchange. This way, you won’t feel obligated to travel or spend a lot of money on a gift. And, it’s a fun way to destash. Tip: Just don’t bring someone’s past gift to you to the elephant party (Akward!)
Gift an Experience
Rather than try to guess at the perfect gift, just get yourself that piece of jewelry you’ve been craving, and gift everyone else an ‘Experience.’ Experiences are great way to get family and friends together next year for something fun. Airbnb offers gift certificates which can be used for a great girls weekend or a romantic getaway for you and that special someone.
Enjoy a Small Reward
Small rewards make even the most stressful days not so bad. Every day, treat yourself to something wonderful. Maybe it’s a tiny piece of fudge from the local sweet shop, or a smooth glass of deep, dark Cabernet. Whatever you choose, it’s the perfect time to take a few minutes to reflect on what was wonderful about the day.
Random Acts of Kindness
The holiday season is truly about giving from your heart. The best food for your soul is a random act of kindness. Maybe you have a neighbor who can’t see her family. Next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up a little Christmas cactus or a small bunch of flowers. Deliver them to the doorstep with a heartfelt note. It doesn’t cost much, takes very little effort and will brighten someone else’s day (and your heart) beyond words.
Make a Gift Certificate Date
Gift Certificates don’t have to be impersonal. Make it special by combining the certificate with the promise of a future get-together to check out the gift. With a SS Magpie Gift Certificate, the recipient can use it towards any in-stock or custom design so she can get a one of a kind piece that perfectly reflects her style. Then you can meet for lunch, see the piece she picked out and reflect on your favorite way you made it through the holidays.
