We all love watching holiday movies or specials that fill your heart with warmth, But let’s face it, those images of happy family gatherings, hot cocoa–fueled heart-to-heart chats, and constantly smiling faces are not real. They’re entertainment. In real life, the festive parties, decorating, and shopping for the right presents often come with a lot of pressure. So much so that one out of every three adults say their stress levels go up during the holidays. And if you’re feeling a bit frazzled? Chances are your kids are, too.
Take it from Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast Program Manager Sarah Peterson, who plans events for hundreds (sometimes thousands) of Girl Scouts, that keeping it simple and being flexible are the keys to success and happiness, especially during the holidays.
Her advice? “If you want your kids to be happy and have a relaxed holiday, then one of the best things you can do is give yourself a bit of a break—literally AND figuratively. Don’t over-plan or over-stress.”
Hmm. Might be easier said than done, you say? Here are some tips to help you get started.
Perfection is not a goal
Fact: The two and a half hours you’re spending trying to make your snowman cookies look Pinterest-perfect could be spent on something to de-stress. Nobody’s saying you should flake out on the holiday bake sale (it’s for a good cause!), but there’s no need to pretend you’re on the set of the Food Network’s latest holiday bake-off. The same concept goes for elaborate holiday cards, gift wrapping, and all the other trimmings. Sometimes “good enough” really is good enough!
Traditions aren’t set in stone
Do some of your holiday traditions feel a bit tired or tedious? Rethink them! Check in with your family—or your Girl Scout troop or youth group—then make a plan for what you want to keep on your holiday calendar and which things you might want to lovingly leave in the past. It’ll free up some time for rest, relaxation, and spontaneous fun.
The magic of the season does not include mind reading
So many parents and volunteers take on the holiday chores and planning single-handedly and then end up too tired to fully enjoy the festivities themselves. Sound like you? Take a step back, assess your team (kids count!), and delegate. Sure, you might think you shouldn’t have to ask your kids, your partner, or others in your life to help—but the truth is, they might feel intimidated or unsure of the best way to pitch in. Spelling out specific tasks will clarify roles, get everything done faster, and give everyone a sense of ownership and pride over the family’s holiday experience.
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