Hello Friends.  Let me introduce myself. My name is Erin Misenar.  I am a life coach, a former educator, and a single mom of four kids.  I enjoy watching my kids compete in sports and a nice scented candle.  I love to share easier ways to get through life.  I blog over at www.erinmisenar.com and my instagram handle is @4monkeysss.  Here’s to a great new season ahead!

Stress

The holidays have a large amount of stress.  Whether it is worry, overeating, being tired, not sleeping, or mood swings – everyone has some amount of stress.  We need to manage this stress in a way that we can control.  So, here are some great ideas in order to make this the best holiday season yet!

Realistic Expectations Our culture makes the holiday season into a joyous occasion.  However, sometimes it doesn’t feel that way.  The holidays shows (and I admit I am a Hallmark movie junkie) portray an illusion that is not real life.  Go into the season with an expectation that it will fulfill.  If you think this is a bad year because of loss of love, or sadness, don’t think this will be the best year you have.  Be kind to yourself and the idea of what the holiday brings.  It is ok if you just survive this time of year.

Do not do more than you can handle You do not have to be the one in charge.  You do not have to be the one who cooks 3 dozen cookies.  You don’t have to give gifts to everyone you have ever met.  If you can’t bring yourself to decorate over the top – do not do it!  Don’t volunteer for everything this season.  Take care to only do what you think is appropriate.  Saying no is really saying yes to yourself and your sanity.  I like to answer, “No thanks. I’m sure someone else would love the opportunity.”  You do not have to give an explanation to anyone about your choices.  You control you.

Make a List of What is Important If you take the time to make a list of what you want to accomplish this holiday season – do that and stick to the list.  This list should not be one that overwhelms you. If it contains only a few items of what you need to do – stick to that.

Don’t Compare It is so difficult to compare your life to those around you – especially with all the social media.  Do not compare your life to someone else’s.  You never know what they are experiencing on a daily basis.  Don’t feel bad because the photos seem perfect – the fact is that is not how life is. Life is messy.

Spread some cheer If you have the time, it is a great time to volunteer. Or mail a letter to a friend who helped you.  Drop off a small gift to a surprise house.  Donate a toy to the children’s hospital. Drop off cat food at your local shelter.  Do what is easy but it will make you feel better.  I love anonymous donations.  Or pay for the car behind you in a drive thru.  Or just smile at those around you. Smiling will already make you feel better. Spread love all around you.

Support If you need support, get it.  There is no shame in talking to someone – whether it is a counselor or life coach or friend.  Talk to someone and get the understanding and compassion for what you need.  Take care of yourself.

Make Time for Yourself You know I mentioned Hallmark movies earlier? I love them and usually watch them in my alone time for the holidays.  Take a bath or take a walk on your own.  Do what makes you happy and plan for that time.  Being divorced, I have more alone time than I usually want – but I fill that in on things that I enjoy.  Get a manicure if it makes you feel better.

Create New Memories If it is a new season in your life – maybe you want to create a different memories. Some old memories are sad.  So, start a new one.  Start a hot chocolate and talk event.  Go caroling.  Go out and see Christmas lights and vote on which you like best – we like to leave a gift of a chocolate bar and a note – you are the winner of the lights! – for fun.  Go enjoy something new.

Here’s to the Best Holiday Season Yet!!!

Big thank you to Erin for sending over this blog for me to feature about holiday stress! It’s always great working with new people and helping each other out, especially around this time of year. Look for my blog featured on hers as well about your Sunday Morning Classic Rock Playlist. If interested in guest blogging in the future with me, please email me on my contact me page, or visit my Instagram and send me a DM. Thanks!