This week has found me
dragging. You see, the Christmas break pull is huge right now and with school
still going and my husband still at work, I am having a hard time wanting to
focus.
So, I have been extra kind to myself this week. It is super easy,
when I have almost zero motivation and so many other holiday things pulling for
my time, to give myself a break from the norm.
Being kind to yourself can be as simple as consciously letting go
of the tasks on your list that can be done anytime (cleaning, errands, etc.)
and focusing only on what is the most important to you of those things that
need attention now (special holiday traditions that will make or break your
feeling about the season).
Two tricks: First, you must decide that you are not just putting
off those regular "anytime" tasks until tomorrow. The pile up of
tasks like that will crush your mind and soul. If you decide they are not
important to having a happy holiday season, let them go. If completing them
will help you truly be able to enjoy your time with your family, then man up
and push through.
Second, our family likes to do many things during the holidays,
but no one thing has to be done with me dragging everyone else kicking and
screaming unless it truly is the one thing I want to do during the season. If
anyone isn't willing to pitch in (even with some excitement), then maybe that
tradition has run it's course and needs a small break. Traditions, despite what
society tells us, should bring joy. If you are feeling more drudgery, ask for
some input about what to focus time and energy on.
I was able to do this last week when I was playing the single
parent thing again and was pretty sick. On the calendar, the only way to fit in
the one thing I truly wanted to do was one night in the midst of this. I asked
for some kindness and support from the kids and we had a great (and very short)
time out together. The whole thing was simple but left me feeling better.
(Holiday spirit better, not sickness better.)
Take the time to decide what you truly must have in your life and
what you can let go of this season for a truly Merry Christmas.
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