Summary
Christmas can be a peculiar time; despite being a festive season, it often leads to significant stress and chaos in pursuit of idealism. This phenomenon can render the holiday itself rather underwhelming, particularly when a considerable portion is spent in a food-induced stupor.
1.) Make Christmas about more than just the 25th of December
The festive day invites an almost obligatory indulgence in culinary delights (just ensure you’re wearing comfortable clothing). Yet, contrary to the day’s anticipation, much enjoyment derives from the lead-up to the festivities rather than the day itself. Allocate time to admire the decorations, engage in winter activities (if available), savor all the mince pies, and prepare your holiday movie lineup—these enjoyable activities certainly surpass the singular focus on achieving a flawless Christmas Day.
Why limit the joy to just one day when you can relish it for weeks? 😉
2.) Purchase Christmas gifts online
Unless queues and last-minute stress are your delight, venturing into stores—particularly late in the game—should be avoided during the holidays. Opt for online shopping—it may seem obvious, yet many still attempt to tackle their gift lists on busy high streets. Convenience should be maximized wherever possible—simple!🙂
3.) Avoid last-minute shopping
I admit I often falter in this department. I make ambitious plans, sometimes as early as November, only for December 23rd or 24th to arrive unexpectedly! This invariably precipitates excessive stress, ultimately leading to mediocre gifts that everyone can discern were acquired hastily—regardless of whether they voice this. Instead, consider dedicating those days to surpass your previous year’s mince pie consumption.
4.) Return home a day or two before Christmas
This may seem slightly extravagant, but taking a few days off around Christmas (as opposed to embarking on the holiday rush from December 22nd onward) is highly beneficial! The more significance you confer upon these occasions, the more meaningful they become! Prioritize quality time at home instead of treating it as an afterthought, and devote a week or so to your loved ones, honing your turkey consumption skills ahead of the big day.
5.) Moderate alcohol consumption
While indulgence in a bit of mulled wine appears almost essential—particularly at festive gatherings—the holidays can cultivate a tendency to drink during times and in quantities one would typically avoid. Although this might seem enjoyable in the moment, the extra calories could linger for months. Therefore, consume with caution! 😉
6.) Embrace spontaneous indulgence
Allow yourself to loosen up a bit—treat yourself and those around you to delightful experiences as often and generously as you can. *This may appear contradictory to the previous point, but treats need not always be consumable… 😉
7.) Pamper yourself
This may seem trivial to some, yet the holidays are your time to rejoice, so ensure you allocate time for self-care! Although we are often encouraged to prioritize others during this season, it remains entirely possible to do so while still taking time for yourself! 🙂
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