If you’re feeling stressed this holiday season, you’re not alone. Dealing with the shopping, the traveling, the house guests, the expectations (and so much more!) can make anyone feel overwhelmed. But even if you can’t just ignore the items on your “to do” list, you can still make this holiday season less stressful – just by changing your attitude.
Have you ever recognized how much energy it takes to be negative? Instead of concentrating on what’s wrong and upsetting (and how much you have to do), use that energy to enjoy yourself more! Here are some recommendations for how to create a positive attitude:
• Make realistic expectations for yourself. Break tasks into small pieces.
• Change negative messages into positive ones. Instead of, “I’ll never get everything done in time!”, say: “I have been able to get everything done before. I will do it again.”
• Keep a good sense of humor. Happiness actually leads to more productivity.
• Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, use your imagination to do your job well. (Someone once spoke wisely when he said that “worry is a misuse of the imagination.”)
• Avoid an “all or nothing” attitude. The holiday will not be ruined if everything is not perfect.
• Look at “mistakes” as opportunities to learn. Think feedback, not failure.
• Practice acceptance. You are where you are, and fighting against that is not going to change it.
Remember, you can always reach out for help! No one expects you to be superhuman (except maybe you).
