Photo credit: pippalou from morguefile.com
Despite seasonal depression, I try to focus on the positive aspects of the season. But it also means I must guard against the chaos that can push me to dizzying speeds. The lights, the money, the crowds, the colors in brilliant, blinding hues, are at times too much. Throw it all in a blender, hit the switch, and I could lose my marbles, making for one manic mix-in I can't afford to drink. Last year I got caught up in and it nearly ruined my Christmas.
I have a new strategy and have entered into this season with a game plan. No busy stores or mass crowds for me. This year will be different and so far it has been.
There are a few things any of us, mentally ill or not, can do to control the season and make for relative peace. The captain obvious one is being organized, but we could always use a few more to manage the stress-o-meter.
And who hasn't been the token single one at a small party? Who hasn't been the broke one in the family? Personally, it's a check, check here. Regardless of status, the holidays are stressful and not just because of the gift buying and the crowds; socially it is, too. Families come together and personalities ping pong like a lotto ball machine gone wild.
So, to avoid last year's near holiday meltdown, this year I've been staying sane by employing these tactics.
10 Tips For Holiday Sanity
- Come late, leave early = strategy for difficult social events.
Keeping a global perspective is a fast way to get right-sized during the holidays. Looking around you and being grateful is what it's all about.
Happy Holidays, everyone. May you have a joyful season without losing your mind.