Approaching the holidays with heart can be challenging when heart disease interferes with your stamina and calm. The thought of all there is to do becomes overwhelming at times, even for those with robust health. A good place to start your approach to the holidays is to ask yourself, “What do I value about the holidays?” Being aware of what you want to experience can help you decide what you want to participate in and how you want to be during this time of joy and stress.
When you think back on the holidays of your past, which ones stand out to you? What was so significant about that experience? What elements were present that contributed to that memorable time? Sometimes the significance is related to a time in your life and at others it may be related to enduring values which you hold.
Use your sense of values to inform your use of time and energy.
If you’re having a particularly challenging time you might want to work with a coach; you can contact me through this link. In the meantime, here are some ideas to make this holiday time more manageable and perhaps more joyous.
- Simplify your life by establishing limits regarding what you will and will not do based on your personal values and priorities.
- Pare down your agenda – this will empower you by taking control of your time to do more of what you want. When you consider the hassle associated with superfluous obligations, you may be surprised to see how your schedule has been interfering with your joy.
- Delegate – there are times when it is really OK to have someone else do a task which is a drain on you. For example, perhaps someone else can bring a special dish, or you can purchase a food item to contribute to holiday meals. You know which things are least meaningful to you and can be turned over to someone else.
- Pace yourself – Be aware of all you want to do, how much energy you have and the quality you want to be present in what you are doing. Try not to overcommit when scheduling your days. If there are tasks which you don’t like but need to be done, chip away at them little by little and reward yourself with something you enjoy later in the day. Be sure to include some of what nourishes you when working for the joy of the season and others.
- Humor – laughter can diffuse many a tense situation and renew your outlook at the same time. Remember the HOHOHO of Santa; he has to invoke laughter often.
What are some strategies you can share for enjoying the holiday season with a full heart?
