The holidays are coming and there is so much to do. You might think when there is a holiday, you get plenty of days off and have a chance to relax and practice self-care. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Not only are there end-of-year projects, but it’s common to have extra events with family and friends.
If you’re a giver, you may feel overwhelmed with what to buy loved ones or the lack of time to go shopping. The holidays can also be a reminder of loss or bring more relationship strain. This all adds a lot of stress and can lead to burnout before you know it.
Burnout can look and feel different for everyone.
It can be that:
- You have trouble falling asleep
- Your relationships are suffering
- You are getting sick a lot
- You feel exhausted all the time
- You are moody
- You don’t feel as happy as your normal self
- You’re skipping meals or making bad eating choices
- You have a lot of trouble concentrating
- Your body hurts without any reason you may think of
- You are irritable or feel easily annoyed
Burnout, though normal, should only remain temporary so as not to risk more chronic health or life concerns. So, the question still remains:
How can you find calm among the chaos of the holidays?
Here are tips to help you manage the holiday squeeze and still enjoy the people you love.
Prioritize your time.
Sometimes you feel bad if you have to say “No” to an invitation. Instead, you force yourself to attend all the social gatherings. But, if you’re not feeling good, you’re not going to enjoy the outing or feel your best. Forcing yourself to meet all social events will contribute to burnout. It’s okay if you don’t go to every gathering. It’s ok to set boundaries and limitations.
Without boundaries, you can end up self-sabotaging your mental wellbeing. So instead, ask yourself: “Is it important that I make myself present at this event?” If it isn’t vital to your job or relationships, then it’s fine to skip and enjoy a night off. After all, healthy boundaries and limits are a must!
Take a time out.
Speaking of taking a night off, it’s important to take a break and do things for yourself that will keep you sane. You must focus on self-care! Take time to enjoy that cup of coffee in the morning. Or hit the gym after work for a heart-pumping workout. Maybe try a stroll outside at a local park on your lunch break to keep the stress at bay. Whatever hobby or activity you enjoy, make time to do it.
It’s very easy to go on autopilot during the holidays and simply go through the motions without actually experiencing any joy in daily activities. Instead, ask yourself every day, “What will I do today to take care of myself and find joy in life?”
Skip the stores.
If shopping is stressing you out, try online and get everything shipped to your home. This option not only allows you to shop from the comfort of your own home, but it can help save gas and time. To stay on track and truly eliminate the shop-strain, ask, “Who am I buying for?” and, “What is my budget?” Now it’s time to make your shopping list and check it off!
Sleep on it.
Sleep is so important and losing some Z’s every night will lead to burnout. During the holidays when we have so many activities, it’s easy to skip a full night’s rest. Activities like gift and grocery shopping or attending a holiday events, are draining.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleeping less than 6 hours a night is the #1 sign of burnout. Even taking a nap during the day can make a big difference to your mental wellbeing.
Think outside of the box.
When it comes to gift giving, it’s the thought that counts. Stressing over what size, color or item is normal. First, think about why you’re stressing over the gift. It’s easy to put pressure on yourself over choosing the perfect gift for your loved ones. Then, ask yourself “What activities does my loved one enjoy?” Instead of stressing over the perfect gift, think about their hobbies and activities.
Gifts like gym memberships, movie gift cards, travel tickets or other life-giving gifts can show that you see them and what they enjoy.
Ask for help.
If you’re hosting a gathering this holiday season and are stressed about it, reach out for help. Those attending your holiday event can bring a dish or even utensils to ease the strain of hosting. If you don’t have time to cook a large meal, make it a potluck-style event.
Another option is to order food from a restaurant, pick it up cold the day before and simply heat it up for your guests. So as you plan your event ask, “What is the least stressful option for me to host this holiday?”
The holidays are meant to make long-lasting memories with your loved ones. If you have already gotten to the point of burnout, those temporary circumstances may keep you from making those beautiful memories. The first step is reducing the stress and returning to a balance in your life.
Care you will love.
First Stop Health is here to support your mental health. If your employer provides you with access to virtual counseling, our counselors can provide short-term, solution-focused guidance to help you through the holiday season.
