Whether you want to admit it or not, the holiday season is fast approaching. Known as the time that we gather to spend time with our family and loved ones while celebrating thankfulness and the reason for the season, it can also be a stressful time of the year. As the hostess, planner, personal shopper, chef, and more, this can be chaotic for you.
It used to be chaotic for me.
Then a couple of years ago, I decided to be more intentional about the holiday season. Less doing things because of the pressure of perfection and more living in the moment while enjoying the ones I love the most.
If you feel overwhelmed, here’s my Seven Ways to be More Intentional This Holiday Season:
Be selfish
When we think of the holiday season, we think about pleasing others and making everyone else happy. There’s nothing wrong with that. But if you aren’t one of those people who you want to make happy, then you are doing it all wrong. When going out of your way for your friends and family, make sure you also do yourself that favor.
Carve out time for yourself during the hustle and bustle. Make time for yourself, even if it’s just a few minutes or so. This can make all the difference, and help you be the best for those you love.
Make a list
What makes you happy during the holiday season? What goals would you like to achieve (i.e: more family time, reconnection with a loved one, etc.)? Make a list and write it down, and work towards doing everything on your list. Do you like watching classic Christmas movies, or having a Christmas decorating party? Indulging in the things you love doing (and others probably love doing with you) helps you be more intentional during the holidays. And it’s good for the soul.
Give gifts with meaning
Sure, we want to make sure that everyone gets what they want on their list. But to lead with intention, make sure that you also give a gift with meaning. It can be something you made, or an ode to a memory that you shared together. These gifts are often the ones people most remember, and doing so will make your heart smile.
Family sharing
Discuss your intentions for the holidays with your family and/or tribe and let them share theirs. Your most wonderful time of the year should be one of togetherness and collaboration, and family sharing can help you all be more intentional this holiday season.
Downtime
Don’t get too bogged down with your calendar. Make sure that you schedule some downtime during the holiday season so that you can rest, regroup, and relax. If this means saying no to an invitation or two, so be it. Being intentional means making decisions and choosing what is most important to you, then taking action to make sure those things are achieved.
Journal
I am very big on journaling, especially during this time of year. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can go a long way in helping you tune into yourself. Carve out a few minutes each day to journal. It will help you stay intentional and on top of your desired result for the holiday season.
You can be more intentional this holiday season and make all of the difference, not only for you, but for your family and friends as well. Leading by example, you can show others that it’s about quality, not quantity when it comes to the holidays.
How do you plan to be more intentional this holiday season?
Leave a Reply