The holiday season is upon us. And it is a wonderful time of
year. There is a lot happening, and oh so many fun things to do. But there are
moments during the season that I wonder will I live through this season. So
here are a couple of things I try to do when the holidays don’t feel so joyful.
1.
The holidays are never perfect so just enjoy
what comes. You can’t buy the perfect gift, throw the perfect party, or make
the perfect food. In fact, the mistakes are often what makes the holidays so
memorable. The perfect example is my friend Billy, who made rum balls every
year for Christmas. Everyone talks about the year his rum balls weren’t really
balls, but turned out as a gooey mess. Due to his adding too much rum.
2.
The holidays are for sharing. Put thought into
the gifts you give. But don’t get too upset if someone doesn’t go crazy for the
gift you give. On the flip side always be gracious when you receive a gift.
Some people aren’t creative gift givers, and some people honestly have so much
going on that another it is just nice of them to remember you. Always be
appreciative of what you receive. Remember how Penny gives Sheldon a napkin
autographed by Leonard Nimoy. And it was the greatest gift Sheldon ever
received. (Yeah, it’s a TV show, but the principle is true.)
3.
Do something hokey. Going to the Christmas
lights around town is hokey, but it’s also beautiful. We all remember the silly
Christmas traditions from our childhood. Start a few of your own; they will
probably be what your family members remember about the holidays.
4.
Expensive does not mean great. The best gift I
ever received was a little bear from a client I worked with. She bought it at
the Dollar Store, but it was just really great to receive something from
someone who had almost nothing in life. I don’t have many of the big gifts I’ve
received at the holidays, but I still have that bear.
5.
And finally, do something for others. We all get
caught up in our own busy little worlds. Don’t forget that there are others
around you that may not have as much as you. Donate to your local charities or
other worthwhile causes. I remember a friend of mine who wasn’t sure how she
was going to get presents for her children at Christmas. One of the local
companies received her name as their Christmas family. She received a van load
of food and presents from that company. They provided her with clothing, food,
and toys. The food actually lasted three months. To this day she claims that
those presents helped her get on her feet so she wasn’t worrying about bills
all the time.