Finding JOY this holiday season
In the words of Mariah Carey, “IT’S TIMMMMEEEE!” The holiday season is finally here! I can’t believe we are already in November and my daughter will be ONE next week. So many emotions but so much to look forward too as well! While the holidays can be such a magical time, they can also be overwhelming and not as perfect as all the Hallmark movies suggest (yes, I love and watch them!) During the holiday chaos, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed but I’ve found how important it is to take a step back and focus on what truly matters. Not everything will be picture perfect and that’s ok! Amidst all the chaos we face as moms during this time, reminding ourselves to slow down and putting everything in perspective is key. It’s so important to find joy, even during those hard moments this time of year! Here are some tips that I’ve found helpful to feel less overwhelmed during this holiday season!
Lower expectations! With most things in motherhood, we want everything to be or go perfect for our kids. It’s ok if what you had envisioned doesn’t go as planned. I remember putting so much pressure on myself for Blake and Blaire’s “firsts” during the holidays. Getting a picture in their first holiday onesie or having that first holiday meal be perfect when family was over. I learned the hard way, but most likely things won’t go as planned. It’s normal and just remember as much as this time of year is chaotic for you, it’s just if not even more chaotic for your kids. Your little one won’t always love taking pictures, seeing Santa, or being around different people. I remember Blake screaming his first year in Santa’s lap. I was bummed that’s not what I had envisioned, but I will say I got great pictures to show him when he’s older :) It’s best to just go with the flow and not get so down on yourself if things don’t go as planned. Cherish these times with your littles because there will be plenty of moments when they are older for grander holiday celebrations.
Don’t worry about going overboard on presents. I am so guilty of going overboard with gifts. I’ve learned that most likely my kids will remember our family traditions rather than gifts. Don’t get me wrong, I love to spoil them but making those memorable family traditions this time of year is everything. I like to celebrate the feast of Saint Nicholas with my kids since that was something I celebrated as a kid. Also, when you have littles, they aren’t going to remember all the gifts, so give yourself grace! It’ll also be one less thing for you to worry about.
Be present. It can be easy to get caught up in the holiday chaos. I sure have because I’ve wanted to capture every moment. As Blake gets older, I’ve found how important it is to be present. This means putting down my phone, ridding myself of any distractions and truly living in the moment. Don’t forget to savor this time with your family.
Lean on your people. If support is there or offered, take advantage of it. Go holiday shopping, do some errands, and sit in silence in your car (yes, it’s amazing).
Lastly, remember the holidays are supposed to be filled with joy and love. Unfortunately, we always feel the stress part. Shifting your perspective can truly change your mindset and mood. The holidays are so magical so keep that your focus. Also, for some of us the holiday season can be hard and a source of pain. For our family, it’s such a joyous time with my kids of course but I can’t say it isn’t hard not having my father-in-law around. It’s ok not to feel happy all the time during this season. You’re not alone. Oh, how I wish I could go back in time but knowing that my husband and I can pass down our childhood traditions to Blake and Blaire is everything and what we focus on.
The true joy of the season is our children. Creating traditions, being with family and showing acts of kindness are the simplest but best ways to celebrate. At the end of the day, the best gift we can give to our kids is love.
Blake looking for Santa!
