6 Tips to Thrive (Not Just Survive!) This Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us. The most wonderful time of the year… or, as Glennon Doyle puts it, “the MOST time of year.” This season can be fraught with so many mixed emotions, it can be a challenge to not get swallowed up in a blizzard of stress, anxiety, overwhelm, dread, joy, excitement, and nostalgia. How do we even begin to maintain our boundaries when there are so many demands unique to the season that are suddenly thrust up on us? How do we stick to our wellness goals when we are surrounded by all the things that have derailed us in the past? And how can we feel more of the JOY of the season and less of the overwhelm?
These questions are exactly what my dear friend Deb Podlogar and I set out to tackle the other night on Instagram Live. We came together to share our top tips for preserving sanity and sense of self - not to mention sobriety, if that applies! - through the holidays. While we both made our lists of tips beforehand, we didn’t share them with each other. Turns out we each thought of different things, and our ideas meshed so well I wanted to share them with you here. So here we go:
Jen says, “Just say no!” Preserve your sanity and protect your boundaries by saying no to events, outings, family visits, and anything else that feels exhausting or extraneous. This is a very full time of year. You don't have to do all the things!
Deb says, “Plan your drinks ahead of time!” Going out? Check the restaurant menu. Traveling? Pack or ship your favorite NA beverages. When you plan ahead, you are less likely to get derailed in the moment! Note from Jen: if you are not currently alcohol-free, this tip still applies! It is all too easy to over-drink during the holidays. If you want to avoid the hangovers, bloat, and general malaise that come with too much booze, consider swapping a mocktail for a cocktail or glass of wine. This simple switch can make a big difference in your energy levels this season!
Jen says, “Practice positive self-talk!” You are the boss of your inner monologue. Make it nice! By practicing positive self-talk, we nurture self-compassion. When we are kind to ourselves, we gain energy, patience, and empathy. It starts with us.
Deb says, “Play the movie forward!” When you are tempted to drink but determined to stick with sobriety, think about how you will feel if you do indulge. Reminding yourself about 3am wake-ups and hangovers makes cravings less appealing! Note from Jen: What I love about this tip is that it applies to so much more than alcohol. What are your other easy buttons or ways you escape holiday discomfort that end up making you feel worse than before? Junk food? Phone scrolling? Be honest - we all have them! When you feel the need to bail, play the movie forward so you don’t derail. Then ask yourself, “What do I really need right now?” Maybe it’s a glass of water, a nap, a workout, or just a moment of quiet. You have the power to choose an activity that will REPLENISH instead of deplete.
Jen says, “Set one achievable goal.” When you're stressed or anxious this holiday season, set a small but meaningful goal for yourself. Maybe you will journal every morning for five minutes, or meditate three times a week. Whatever your goal, working towards it will help you focus on self-care during the holi-craze. And you'll feel great when you achieve it!
Deb says, “Have an exit plan.” You don't have to stay at any event or in any conversation where you are uncomfortable. Whether it's an Uber, your own car, or simply moving to another room, having an exit plan helps you protect your peace (and your alcohol-free goal, if that applies).
Remember, when you take care of yourself, everyone benefits. By carving out time and space for YOU during these very full, very merry, and very everything days, you can end this year feeling proud and strong instead of exhausted and defeated.
Do these tips resonate with you? Which do you find most helpful? Let me know!
P.S. Deb and I are at it again… our Booze Break program is back and better than ever for Dry January 2023! We have evolved our offering to better reflect the interests of our wonderful sober curious and newly sober community. Check out the details here and sign up today to start the new year with a clear head and a full heart!
