Have you ever wondered why so many people dread the holiday season? After years of navigating this time of year, I’ve stumbled upon a little secret that can transform your experience: to truly enjoy the holidays, you need to lower your expectations. It’s a principle that applies not just to the festive season, but to life in general. Here are my two golden rules:
- Adjust your expectations.
- Besides the basics like paying taxes and staying within speed limits, don’t commit to anything you’re not genuinely excited about.
I’ve spoken with countless individuals who express their disdain for returning home during the holidays. They’ll lament over too much sugar being fed to their kids, or their stepdad’s less-than-charming behavior. While I don’t have those specific issues, I still find myself reluctant to go home for Christmas. Why? I’m not quite sure. I just know it’s not my idea of a good time.
I’d much prefer visiting my parents when the weather is pleasant, allowing us to venture out. Watching my nieces text their friends about their gifts fills me with a sense of dread, making me feel old and irritable. So, when that inner voice nudges you to avoid holiday gatherings, listen to it.
Another common grievance about the holidays is the financial burden of gift-giving. The solution? Don’t feel obligated to buy presents for everyone! This year, I picked out a couple of books for an acquaintance I knew would appreciate them, and that was my way of spreading holiday cheer. I simply declared, “Done with Christmas shopping!” and felt a wave of relief wash over me.
Of course, this strategy doesn’t apply to kids who are aware of presents and still cherish them. It’s simpler to buy gifts for them than to explain your reasoning otherwise. However, once they grasp the concept of money, it’s completely acceptable to share the reality of consumerism. Kids often endure enough pressure to excel academically and financially; a little honesty about expenses can be refreshing.
The no-gift approach extends to holiday parties too. I’ve never been a fan of office holiday gatherings, and this year, I decided to skip mine without conjuring up excuses. I simply won’t participate! And remember, just because you get someone a gift doesn’t mean you have to attend every party!
So, what am I planning to do this holiday season? Honestly, not much. I fantasize about sipping bourbon while re-watching The Ghost Writer for the fifth time. I realize that my suggestion to lower expectations might sound contradictory, but hey, it’s my kind of fun!
I believe there’s something wonderful about having a few days off during a season when it’s perfectly acceptable to stay indoors and binge-watch TV. If you’re struggling to reframe the holidays into something enjoyable rather than a source of dread, try saying the words “The holidays. The holidays. The holidays.” They sound so benign. Embrace it like a cozy cup of supermarket eggnog. Mmmm. Now that’s a boost to your expectations!
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In summary, the key to enjoying the holidays lies in setting realistic expectations and focusing on what truly brings you joy.