Thanksgiving and
Christmas are some of the most joyous times of the year. Holidays are a lot of
fun but they’re also very stressful in modern times. Many people endure the
holidays instead of enjoying them.
We live in a
fast-track society. If we’re not careful we let busy-ness run over most
savoring moments of our lives. Instead of enjoying each other, we feel drained
and dread our times together. Today, let’s discuss how to keep peace in a
stressful time.
1. Keep the right perspective. Holidays are about making memories. It’s
not the time to display perfect housekeeping or how late you can work to
provide for your family. Better is a little where there is joy, love and
laughter than a house full of strife. Celebrate what you have and each other.
2. Be like Santa. Make a list. When we take time to
write down and prioritize the zillion things we’ve to do, it makes it easier
for us to accomplish certain tasks within a certain time. Make a list of gifts
to buy, people to invite and chores to do. A “To Do” list provides direction
and reduces stress.
3. Delegate the jobs. Don’t try to be a superman or a super
woman trying to do everything yourself. Be secure. When we engage others, we
allow them to create memories together. Communicate clearly who does what and
by when. Post your job list in a prominent place such as your fridge or water
dispenser in the office.
4. Have a relaxed, easy going attitude. People will make mistake. Things will
go wrong. When we jump on each other over spilled milk, we’re destroying the
memory of our times together. It’s easier to replace broken things than to
repair broken people. People are the most important thing to celebrate.
5. Overlook offense. Holidays are emotionally charged
times. Somebody will say or do something offensive. Forgive quickly. Don't hold a grudge. Make up your mind not to
fall in the trap of getting into an argument. Unite not divide! Now is not the
time to voice your opinion on who should be the next President or who should be
the next player in our favorite NFL team.
6. Keep a positive environment. I’ve had to ask people to change the
subject when they get into a negative conversation with me. Great people
discuss plans, visions, ideas and accomplishments of others. Small people talk
about themselves and the faults of others. If you join in the gossip,
eventually they’ll talk about you.
7. Spend time not money. Money and expensive gifts don’t buy
happiness. Have a budget for gifts. Love is not expressed in price tag. Time
spent together making and building a family tradition is cherished for a
lifetime. Put up the Christmas tree, bake and make special food together. Jump
in the family wagon and drive around the neighborhoods to rate their lighting
decorations. The internet is full of ideas.
8. Take time for yourself. Only you are responsible for your own
happiness. Don’t sacrifice yourself at the altar of responsibility. When you’re
fulfilled, you serve better.
9. Give thanks. Recognize and vocalize that all of the
blessings in our lives are a gift from God. When we gather together and
acknowledge Him, we make God proud. Thanksgiving ensures that the blessings will
continue to flow and sets Godly tradition.
10. Reach out to others. Holidays are most depressing times for
some. Make sure to include people you know who are less fortunate. Get in a
group together and pick people to make them your “Christmas Project.” You can also consider partnering with Build International Ministries and bring
the message of Hope to men, women and children in Asia who have never heard the
name of Jesus.
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love
endures forever” (Psalm 107:1 NIV).
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