Setting Boundaries to Manage Stress During the Holiday Season

It seems like it has been FOREVER since I have written a blog!

BUT, I have still been working. Increasing videos on IG and YouTube, speaking engagements, and more so if you have not been seeing those things be sure to keep up with me on my socials.

I recently did an IG Live on this topic and thought I should also put the steps here for you all.

Unfortunately, stress is inevitable during the holiday season. We are so busy between holiday parties, shopping, volunteering, kids programs, church engagements, and everything else it can be a lot to handle!

So I want to share these tips with you to help you manage during this season.

As I was doing the IG Live I realized that a lot of these all go back to setting boundaries just in different areas.

1. Gifts

As far as gifts...make a list before you go to the store. The list should include who you are purchasing gifts for, what you are purchasing, and a spending limit for each person. It will be tempting when you go in the store to buy other things that you think a person would like but you have to stick to the list. There may be people that get gifts for you that you did not intend to get gifts for and now you feel obligated to get a gift for them...stick to the list.

2. Rest

Being busy during this time can make rest seem like a fantasy but scheduling time for yourself is vital.

Schedule time for rest and breaks. It does not have to be a large amount of time but allowing yourself 15-30 minute breaks to breathe, spend time with your family, etc. Maybe take a couple select days during this time to just relax and not do anything. Maybe it has to be half a day.

3. Family

We say that this time of year is all about family and loved ones but not everyone has all positive familial relationships.

Even if we get along decently with our family members it can become too much after a while. It is okay to set your own boundaries on how much time you give to others. Maybe you want to split your time among different family members...that is your choice.

Some may have family members that you are dreading seeing. You can either choose not to go places where they are, you can choose to only spend a limited amount of time there, or any other option that you feel is best for you.

It is also good to be prepared and possibly have an exit plan. If you are struggling with how to prepare for this book a session with me and let's talk about it. If you are struggling with setting boundaries in any of these ways or any other ways let's chat.

Holidays are often said to be about others but in some ways you have to be sure to thinking about what is best for you as well. Boundaries are a good thing.

That's all, I hope that you have a great Thanksgiving. Please sign up for our email list if you are not already or check your emails for Black Friday deals coming up.