Maximizing Simplicity and Finding JOY this Christmas Season
I know 2020 has rocked our worlds like no other year! For so many, this Christmas season brings about a new set of challenges that we’ve never had to navigate before. For some parents, they are trying desperately to create a magical season for their littles, even though Santa Pictures, Polar Express Trains and all of the little traditions are no longer an option.
For others, they are struggling with navigating loneliness, as they may have lost a loved one, sadness as they are isolated from their families, are mourning missed opportunities in work or life, and others just trying to make sense of it all. I, too, am feeling ALL of the above. Literally ALL of the above. So, this Christmas season, I’m choosing to find the joy and honor the simplicity that can come from this time:
To start, I’d encourage you to make a simple T-Chart- Download here
On the left side, write down all of the ways you want to FEEL this Holiday Season. My list reads: I want to FEEL CALM, BE PRESENT, FEEL ENERGIZED, LAUGH MORE, HAVE FUN!
On the right side, write down all of the activities that you have control over that achieve ONLY those goals (I repeat, ONLY those goals).
My list reads:
Daily Dance Parties to Christmas Music and Christmas Stories at bedtime. I’m not wrapping said Christmas books this year in cute advent paper; this year that feels heavy, so I’m modifying and still enjoying in a new way.
Family Movies. I will feel zero guilt about additional screen time because it’s intentional, expected,and creates calm in my often LOUD home. Again, ZERO guilt, and in fact, feel free to send me any suggestions because I plan on watching A LOT with my kiddos!
Visit as many Christmas lights as possible. We will drive to certain neighborhoods, get out and walk in others, and I will pack warm coats and some hot chocolate in their hydro flasks. This is magical and EASY and hits ALL of my goals this season.
Go on evening walks in the dark with their flashlights. There’s something about the cold air that feels magical to children and inevitably leads to snuggles and better sleep post-walk. Win-Win in my books!
Hot Chocolate Bar. This year, I’m leaving the gingerbread making day for my mom to do with the kids because she loves it and I can get stressed with copious amounts of mess. Enter Hot Cocoa Bar! Small bowls of mini marshmallows, sprinkles, whip cream, candy, and a fun and festive straw, and my kids will think this darling little activity is the bee’s knees.
Those are the ONLY 5 things on my list this year. Anything else is a bonus!
When you clear the list of potential trigger areas, you are limiting the number of opportunities for mishaps. A great example - every year, my mom and my sister inevitably argue and fight over cooking because they are both incredible chefs but inevitably step on each other's toes. I’ve made the mistake far too many times of allowing them to cater my parties, but by eliminating that opportunity - I can ensure that everyone is fed and happy. The food might not be as good because it’s store bought or ordered, but I’ve eliminated that potential trigger zone.
This year, give yourself the PERMISSION to let go of certain family traditions that simply don’t bring you JOY. Elf on the Shelf, Advent activities, Gingerbread Making, etc simply stress me out and often leaves me feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
So, this year I’m CHOOSING to leave them out. My children won’t know the difference and by taking this burden off of myself, my kids will have a more happy and present mom - a better gift for my family in my opinion. If such activities bring you JOY, by all means, do them. I’d just encourage you to take an inventory of the things that make you happy and FEEL the way you want to feel this season. YOU have CONTROL over that!
Rooting for you, Mama.
Feel free to share - I would love to hear of SIMPLE activities that bring you JOY!