Keep the "Happy" in Your Holidays

The most wonderful time of the year is officially here. While I always love picking out a Christmas tree, stringing lights, and holiday carols (and cookies!), this time of year can also feel hectic, overwhelming, and unseasonably stressful. And as the year winds down, it can feel like there’s so much to do and time is running away from us.

If you find yourself getting caught up scrambling to find the perfect gifts, or losing sight of all the love, joy, and good cheer that the season is truly about, here are a few ways to help keep the “happy” in your holidays:

Count your blessings
Gifts may need to be wrapped and cards mailed, but nothing’s as important during the holiday season as taking time to recognize how much you have to be thankful for.

Instead of making lists of more things you need to do, make lists of everything you have to be grateful for. Even if your flight’s delayed or your holiday lights flicker, keep in mind all of the food, friends, and family you are truly blessed with.

Give freely
The holidays are a time of giving, so lend a helping hand to friends, neighbors, people, and animals in your community. Volunteer at a local shelter, or spend an afternoon nibbling cookies with a neighbor who lives alone. Give clothing, shoes, blankets, and towels to local homeless and animal shelters. Give toys to kids who could use some good cheer.

Give smiles, hugs, and love to everyone around you.

Take time alone
Calendars tend to get crammed during the holidays and it’s important to take time to yourself. Even a 10-minute walk in nature or a free write in your journal can do wonders to clear your head and ground you.

Gift yourself this time alone so you can show up as your best self for your loved ones and at all of those holiday gatherings.

Get swept up in the spirit of the season
Take a cue from children and allow yourself to feel the excitement, joy, and wonder surrounding the holidays. Cozy up by a fire with a cup of hot cocoa. Savor the smell of Christmas trees and the sight of twinkling lights. Sing out loud, throw snowballs, play a game of dreidel, and let yourself be swept up by the magic, remembering – ‘tis the season to be jolly.

The holiday season is a magical time of year. Be merry and bright and savor the special moments. Like a snowflake in all its unique beauty, it’ll be gone too soon.

Wishing you a warm and happy holiday,
Emily

P.S. If you’re looking to spread joy this holiday season, my book Even Better is an uplifting gift for friends, family, and festive gatherings.

You can get a copy here.