Keeping Special Occasions Joyful
If the thought of a holiday or special occasion fills you with dread, you’re not alone. Many people get stretched thin by money and social obligations. Here are 16 ways to keep you on track.
1. Set realistic expectations. Things aren’t going to go perfectly and that’s okay. You can’t control other people and outcomes. You can prepare yourself by visualizing your calm, positive response to negative events.
2. Cultivate spirituality. It’s not your responsibility to solve the nation’s economic woes by buying. Recognize and explore your spiritual beliefs. Honor your customs and the beliefs behind them. Or, start a new tradition after discussing what is important with your family and friends.
3. Budget your expenditures. Set per person limits on gift giving and stick to them. Don’t overlook special outlays for travel, decorations, food and entertainment.
4. Special events savings account. Now is a good time to set up a “Special Events” savings account at your bank or credit union. Determine the amount of money you wish to contribute per month and deposit it. Check with your employer to see if you can have an automatic deposit from each paycheck. $60 per month means $720 per year. $100 per month amounts to $1200 per year.
5. Pay as you go. Charging your purchases may delay your bills, buy knowing they’re waiting for you the next month increases your stress.
6. Play to your strengths. Utilize what you have the most of – time, money or creativity.
7. Pare down on gift giving. Draw names for extended family and social groups.
8. Cut your costs. Give inexpensive but thoughtful gifts like home-baked goods or handmade photo albums. Bundling several small items around a theme provides a low cost, personal touch.
9. Participate in reaffirming activities. Spend time at church and in your community with like-minded people.
10. Cheer loves company. Combine preparation with socializing. Ask friends or family over for a baking or gift wrapping party. Assign chores and duties to other family members and friends.
11. Get on the same page with family and friends. Come to a consensus on what activities are most important and cut out the extras that add work and scheduling pressure.
12. Avoid isolation. Special occasions can be a lonely time for those who’ve lost loved ones. Get out of the house whenever possible and reconnect with old friends.
13. Forgive someone. Let go of past resentments to make room for future happiness.
14. Make a gratitude list. Review it whenever you’re feeling depressed, anxious, depressed, or stressed out.
15. Take a time out. Indulge in things you stopped doing because you “just don’t have time for anymore” like a long lunch or a night out with friends. Shut off the television and read that book that interests you. Get a massage; take a long bath.
16. Avoid sweets and exercise. Eat regular nutritional meals. Make meals a social occasion with family and friends by eating together. Do more walking by finding parking spots farther away from doors. Walk up steps instead of using the escalator or elevator.
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