Christmas Survival Guide!
The festive season is upon us. For those of us who’ve seen a few dozen Christmases come and go, the season can feel like a mix of genuine joy and a well-rehearsed play we know well. You know the one – where you’re the director, caterer, diplomat, and chief present-wrapper all rolled into one!
So, how do you navigate a modern Christmas without losing your sanity or your sense of humour? Here’s a practical guide to not just surviving but enjoying the festive period.
Family diplomacy
Remember when Christmas arguments were about who got the last roast potato? Now, with grown-up children, their partners, and perhaps even grandchildren in the mix, family dynamics can be a bit more complex.
Maybe your role has shifted from parent to peacekeeper. Try a strategy called “strategic deafness.” When your son-in-law starts explaining the intricacies of cryptocurrency, or your daughter critiques your decorations, just smile, nod, and mentally plan your Boxing Day nap.
It’s also perfectly acceptable to set boundaries. You don’t have to host everyone, every year. Suggest a rotation system or a potluck-style meal where everyone brings a dish. This not only shares the load but also prevents you from spending the entire day in the kitchen.
For more family survival tips visit 7 tips for surviving family events these holidays.
Look after yourself
The festive season is like a marathon, rather than a sprint. It’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of shopping, cooking, and socialising, only to collapse in an exhausted heap on the 27th of December.
Pace yourself. You do not need to attend every festive event. Pick the ones that truly matter to you and politely decline the rest.
Stay healthy. Treating yourself is part of the festive season, however a diet of chocolate and wine will catch up with you. Try to keep a normal routine with your eating and exercise. Drink plenty of water between glasses of alcohol and make healthy food choices at gatherings. Your health will thank you for it come January.
Budget
The pressure to spend at Christmas can be intense. Set a clear budget and stick to it. Consider a ‘Secret Santa’ for the adults in the family to reduce the number of presents you need to buy. Consider experiences or DIY gifts. For example, offer to babysit the grandchildren for a weekend, plan a family day out, or simply give the gift of your time. Want some DIY gift ideas? Please visit – A DIY Christmas.
Here are more tips on saving money at Christmas – Christmas savings tips.
Find your own joy
Amidst the chaos of Christmas, it’s vital to make sure you have some moments of joy for yourself.
What does Christmas mean to you? Is it watching a classic film? A family tradition? Spending time with friends, loved ones or getting some alone time? Or maybe even a short getaway in the festive season?
Remember this is your Christmas too. Delegate tasks, ask for help, let go of the need for perfection, and focus on what truly matters: connecting with the people you love.
This year let’s embrace the season with grace, a healthy dose of humour, and the wisdom that comes with experience. Let the small stuff go, laugh at the mishaps, and raise a glass to making it through another one. You’ve got this. Merry Christmas!
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