Entrepreneur, Senior Leader & Ecosystem Builder with a degrees in Music, Psychology, Digital Mgmt & Transformation. Co-founder of the Music Factory and Earkick. Life-long learner with a deep passion for people, mental health and outdoor sports.
As soon as Halloween’s shenanigans are in the rearview mirror and Thanksgiving rolls in, you may feel holiday anxiety rising. With the festive season looming ahead, you want to make sure you are prepared to survive this passage of chaos and joy.
“Every year it’s like scheduling a mission to Mars, but instead of aliens, I’m dealing with family dinners.”
Amanda (19)
#1 Plan Like You’re Plotting A Heist
Plan your days, your trips, your events. It’s like plotting a heist, but instead of stealing diamonds, you’re stealing moments of sanity. Break down your schedule and talk through the impending madness with your future self. Use audio-journaling to capture it all.
It’s like creating a roadmap for navigating the holiday minefield. And if the plan goes haywire, channel your inner improvisation guru and adjust on the fly. Just having a plan is half the battle won.
“Each holiday, I try to leave room for unexpected drama, because, trust me, it always shows up uninvited.”
Ronny (23)
#2 The Art Of Under-Scheduling
Instead of the typical overscheduling, try the opposite: underscheduling. Setting realistic expectations for yourself is key. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that you can’t do it all. Underschedule your days a bit. Leave room for spontaneity, for those unexpected moments that make the holidays truly magical.
Remember, you’re a human, not a robot.
“Burnt turkey and awkward family pics? That’s just the holiday spice everyone tries to hide on Instagram.”
Emilia (25)
#3 Laugh In The Face Of Chaos
Turn chaos into your partner in crime, and defy the pressure to have a picture-perfect holiday. The burnt turkey, the awkward family photos—these are the spice of life.
Stay away from setting unreasonable expectations, and remember that perfection is overrated; imperfection is where the party’s at.
So, embrace the messy, the imperfect, and let laughter be your secret weapon against the holiday stress monster.
“When holiday stress hits, my pillow’s heard it all.”
Arisha (16)
#4 Breathe In, Freak Out, Breathe Out
Whenever you feel like drowning in a sea of assignments and the impending doom of family gatherings: Take a deep breath, scream into your pillow if you must, and then breathe out the chaos. Inhale courage, exhale doubt. Repeat until you feel the weight lifting off your shoulders like magic.
#5 Procrastinate Procrastination
Procrastination is a double-edged sword that can slice through your holiday joy. Break tasks into bite-sized, manageable chunks. Instead of binge-watching a season of your favorite show, conquer one assignment at a time. Reward yourself for every task you get done and keep track of your progress. You’ll feel much more in control and ready to enjoy the off-time between two assignments.
“Saying ‘no’ is my holiday rebellion. I won’t be dragged to every party—I’ve got a date with my dog”
Jason (17)
#6 Embrace the “No” Power
Learn to wield the mighty power of saying “no.” You don’t have to attend every party, family gathering, or social event. Sometimes, the best way to deal with anxiety is to have a date night with your couch and your furry friend. Your mental health comes first, and FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) can take a back seat.
“Reality check: my holidays are more like a messy sitcom than a Hallmark movie, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Lucas (29)
#7 Ditch the Comparison Game
Your social media feed might be filled with friends’ perfect holiday moments, but remember, it’s a highlight reel. Don’t compare your messy, chaotic life to their seemingly perfect one. Embrace your unique journey, celebrate the imperfections and only compare yourself to yourself.
#8 Gift Yourself Some Me-Time
Amid the chaos, don’t forget to gift yourself the most precious present of all: time for self-care. Whether it’s a bubble bath, a solo dance party, or a few chapters of a good book, prioritize moments that recharge your batteries.
You can’t pour from an empty cup, and you deserve to be at your best during the holidays. Remember, a moment of self-care can make all the difference in facing the holiday hustle.
So, arm yourselves with these strategies, go forth, and conquer the holiday season like the champions you are. You’ve got the power to slay the anxiety dragon and dance into the festivities with your head held high. May your days be merry, your stress levels low, and your laughter infectious.
Now stop scrolling and go create your life’s best holiday experiences!
