Author's Note: Please note that these are only suggestions, and not some sort of guidelines, if you like spending a lot of money on your friends during the holidays, or anything like that, it's your choice, and your decision. Remember it's the thought that counts.
Well time has come again to get out the decorations, the hats, the mittens and everything else to prepare yourself for the winter. Well it's that time if you live somewhere like I do, where it gets colder this time of year. People if you have noticed, have already started Christmas shopping, looks like Christmas carols and cards, and parties are next right? Yet even though everyone is supposed to be so cheerful, why am I doubting that some people really are?
The holidays are usually a time where you can relieve stress, take time off work and spend it with your family. For some reason this isn't happening. The stress is building higher and higher in my usually-happy community. People are wondering how they can afford these magnificent gifts, to try and make each Christmas bigger and better and somehow I feel that even though they are trying to tell there family they love them, they're doing it the wrong way.
Here are some holiday unstress-yourself tips.
First, instead of going to all the trouble of trying to buy something huge for each and every one of your most likely hundreds of friends, maybe make them something, like a card, or friendship bracelets, something that comes from the heart. I'm sure everyone has some sort of talent, so put it to use, and give your wallet a break. Also that way you don't have to scrape up every last nickel and they still know that you really care.
My second tip is to not go crazy on cards. If you're anything like my parents, you'll want to get some shiny light-up singsong card for every family member. I have a lot of family members, so my suggestion in this part is to make your own cards. Also in my opinion the old fashion colored-in cards beat out the printed out computed cards any day. I'm not trying to say that those cards are bad in anyway, I just seem to think cards that are handwritten seem to come more from the heart, rather then Hallmark.
The third holiday tip, is to sing along. If you're one of those shy and "never going to sing in front of a crowd because I'm musically deficient" kind of person, like I used to be, then you probably haven't experience the fun of singing along with your friends as much as the next person has. Maybe you enjoy humming through these joy driven songs, or whatever, just my suggestion is the next time a bunch of your friends are going caroling, or maybe your school is having a "Christmas assembly" like I used to have, or it's possible that you're singing through music class, join along, have fun and ignore your insecurities about singing, because really it's the thought that counts. Just if you are a horrible singer maybe don't sing louder than everyone else ;)
My next suggestion is to have fun with the family. Everyone needs a break from work or school now and then, and if your family is anything like mine, they'd love any chance to spend time with you. If it means playing a game of cards, sitting down to a family dinner, or maybe just watching a festive movie. I'm sure anytime you spend trying to bond with your family during the holidays will be appreciated.
Another idea is to remake old friends. The end of the year is coming up, and it's best to start off fresh. Try and make amends with anyone that you may have had a problem with. I know it may sound like a hassle, or wasted time, but you really don't have to have enemies. I'm not saying that you should be buddy-buddy with them either, but so both you and whoever it may concern know, that you don't want to fight about anything anymore, and leave the past in the past.
My last and final suggestion is, be happy. Doesn't really matter how you celebrate the holidays, or if you even celebrate them at all. Try and look at things in a positive way. Instead of saying "Oh gross, Grandma knitted me another nasty plaid sweater" (as an example, because I know some grandmas are actually very talented knitters) think about the fact that your grandma actually cares to put in the time to make you something, and that plaid sweater is the best way she can show her love. Just remember, to show her you appreciate her love (or anyone who takes the time in getting you a gift) to at least say thank you.
So to everyone who took the time to read this, and to everyone who is most likely oblivious to my message. Happy Holidays! And remember to forget about the stress, and remember the love, joy and cheer.
- Sincerely,
Emma1546
