As a child did you ever overhear the adults saying, “I can’t wait for the holidays to be over”? Do you remember being shocked by this and not able to identify in the slightest degree because you were feeling the exact opposite?
Was your excitement building by the second as you were counting down the days with the greatest anticipation? Did you enjoy every little detail of this time of year from the decorations to the dinner to baking and spending time with my family? Did you get special pj’s or a new outfit and hopefully some items on your wish list?
As a child, it seems like such a magical time but as time marches on and you become older, the reality of the season washes over you. You begin to realize that all of the traditions and extra activities, parties and not to mention expenses have you feeling that this time of year can also be extremely stressful.
How about this year you make a tiny life change during the holidays. Set a goal to retain some of the childlike magic of the season. Make a point to remember to take one step, and one day at a time and look for the joy in the smallest of things. There are so many hidden blessings this time of year.
Although the holidays can bring about added stress, they can also bring out the best in people. So many people use this time to volunteer their time at a charity or donate gifts to those who can not afford them for their family. Have you ever just really listening to Carolers or children singing holiday songs? It can literally bring tears to your eyes.
Take this time and think of a favorite memory but not only think about it, remember how it actually felt in that moment. As you go through your holiday traditions be mindful and reminiscent of why this is important to you and commit to not just go through the motions.
Remember during this hectic and busy time that you only have so much energy in a day. Pace yourself and give yourself permission to not attend every event you are invited to. All you can do is all you can do and you can really only take one step and one day at a time. Let go of expectations, they are the thief of joy.
Take some time to relish in your favorite memories through the years and find joy in your journey. We at Tiny Life Changes would like you to have the gift of seeing through the eyes of a child this holiday season.