Give Yourself the Gift of Downtime during the Holidays
By Kelli Richards
Trusted Advisor, Super-Connector, Media Tech Innovator; I Work on Cool Things With Cool People
December 18, 2023
I don’t know about you, but the pace of the past couple of weeks really feels as though it’s quickened nearly to the point of being out of control. Certainly overwhelming! It seems everyone is pushing hard to wrap up the business year, close deals, get one more meeting on the books (or several), tackle taxes, and that’s before focusing on all the hustle and bustle that tends to consume a lot of folks during the Holiday season with decorating, shopping, wrapping, mailing, cooking and travel. It’s exhausting.
And the danger is that we can get lost in the myriad details, instead of winding down gracefully into the season in a way that nurtures our nervous system, allows us to enjoy the festivities, and what really matters. It’s almost as if we need to give ourselves permission to relax and unplug – during the only time of the year when most everyone is doing just that.
Giving ourselves the gift of downtime during the holidays is a wonderful idea – and it’s definitely do-able. Yes, the holiday season can be hectic with all the festivities, shopping, and social engagements, and it's important to remember that taking a break and prioritizing self-care is essential for our well-being. Here are some ways to give yourself the gift of downtime during the holidays:
1. Plan Ahead: Start by looking at your holiday schedule and identifying some blocks of time that you can set aside for yourself. This could be a few hours, a whole day, a whole week – or even a couple of weeks!!
2. Set Healthy Boundaries: Don't be afraid to say no to some last minute meeting requests, social engagements or other commitments if you feel overwhelmed and need to unplug and power down. It's okay to decline invitations and prioritize yourself and your own needs.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or meditation practices to stay grounded and present. It might be yoga, or time in nature, or taking a walk, or journaling; whatever works for you. Even a few minutes of deep breathing can help reduce stress and increase relaxation.
4. Unplug: Take a break from technology, including the never ending ping of incoming e-mails, texts and social media. Constant notifications and digital distractions can add to holiday stress. Instead, focus on in-person interactions and being fully present in the moment.
5. Enjoy Simple Pleasures: Savor the small moments that bring you joy during the holidays. Whether it's sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace, baking, browsing in stores if relaxing, spending time with close friends, or reading a good book, find simple pleasures that help you relax.
6. Delegate and Share Responsibilities: You don't have to do everything yourself. Share holiday preparations with family members or friends, or consider outsourcing some tasks like wrapping, cooking or cleaning.
7. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care activities like taking a warm bath, getting a massage, watching favorite Holiday movies or TV shows, listening to Holiday music, decorating, or practicing your favorite hobby. These activities can help you recharge and de-stress.
8. Reflect and Set Intentions: Take some time to reflect on highlights and achievements during the past year, and set realistic intentions for the upcoming one (don’t set yourself up to fail with resolutions!). This process can provide a sense of purpose and direction for the new year.
9. Connect with Loved Ones: Spend quality time with loved ones who bring you joy and support. Meaningful connections and creating memories with those who are most important to you can be a nurturing source of comfort and deep relaxation.
10.Stay Flexible: Remember that plans may not always go as expected. Be flexible and adapt to changes as they arise and keep breathing. Trust that if situations change course, better outcomes often result. Allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised and delighted if things pivot.
One of my mentors, Alan Cohen, adds “the time you take to nurture yourself is your gift to the world. The happier you are, the more gifts you bring to the world. Engage in soul-nurturing activities. What heals you heals everyone you come in contact with. It’s time to take time for you.”
Remember that the holidays are a time for fun, joy and celebration, but they should also include plenty of self-care, rest and relaxation. By giving yourself the precious gift of downtime, you can make the holiday season more enjoyable and less stressful. Wishing you a very Happy Holidays!