Why is the most wonderful time of the year also the most stressful? The hustle and bustle of the holidays can often leave us feeling run down or run over; even Grandma got run over by a reindeer. However, this holiday season, why not make a change? Remember, you have the choice to determine how you want to spend your holiday season. At Direct Primary Care of Boca Raton, we want to provide five tips on handling holiday stress.
1. Focus on what’s important
No one is promised tomorrow or the next holiday season. You never know who may not be with you next year. People are always more important than gifts, homemade treats, and traditions. If you are attending a party and need to bring something, but your spouse, children, or friend need your attention, buy something at the store instead. If one more party will leave you feeling ragged or takes too much of your capacity to be present for your most important relationships, skip the party.
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou
2. Accept limitations
There will always be something else you want to do. Set reasonable goals and expectations by listing 3-5 of the most important things you want to accomplish this holiday season. Perhaps it’s making cookies for your co-workers, going on a Christmas adventure with your kids, or visiting family. If it is possible to do all those things, great, but if you can’t accomplish them all, give yourself some slack. You’re only one human being with a limited timetable.
3. Be kind
“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” — Brad Meltzer
You do not know everyone’s story. The lady who just cut you off in traffic could have gotten the news her child has cancer. The man who was rude to you in Starbucks could have just been served divorce papers. The woman walking mindlessly at Target blocking the aisle could have just lost her husband, and she’s still trying to make Christmas special for her kids.
You don’t know what people may be going through, so it is always good to be kind. Additionally, be kind to yourself. Make sure to carve out time for you. Keep your gym routine, get your nails done, or do something that brings you joy. When you’re refreshed, you can refresh others.
4. Choose gratitude
Gratitude helps keep things in perspective and your attitude in check. Instead of focusing on things you don’t have, start writing down the things you do have. Suddenly, you will realize you have more than you need and deserve.
5. Get a health screening
Stress can lead to health issues. Preventative care and screening can give you peace of mind. At Direct Primary of Boca Raton, we offer annual physicals, discounted labs, and preventive cancer screenings through Prenuvo and Galleri. Don’t wait. Get checked out today!
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