This may be a little off topic, but I feel that it is a necessary conversation to have. There is nothing in the school year, with the exception of the end of the school year, that can be chaotic quite like the holiday season. At our school, November is the beginning of a very busy time not only for students, but the teachers also. We have a senior citizen luncheon, then the gathering of Thanksgiving boxes for our needy families, then to Madrigal dinner, exams, and finally, Christmas break. Nonstop activities can take a toll on everyone. Add to all of that any after school activities that the students and teachers are involved in. It creates a very crazy pace that can be anxiety inducing.

What can we do to create a some semblance of sanity one might ask? Taking some time to relax even if it is just 30 minutes here and there can make a world of difference. Burn out around the holidays is a very real thing. What contributes to this feeling? In my case it is overwhelm. I am the type of person that gets too many things going at once and then I am also a perfectionist otherwise known as an all or nothing individual. I am sure that I am not alone in this, however, what can we do to ease these feelings?

My first suggestion is to stop and breathe. Then, make a list of all of the things that need to get done. Making a list helps prioritize tasks by importance. Do tasks in small increments. By breaking them into smaller chunks, they will feel a little less daunting. Give yourself a break and try not to expect perfection. Sometimes good enough is okay. Giving yourself permission to take your time and get things done at your own pace on your own terms makes a huge difference in how it all makes you feel.

Sharing in the responsibilities during the holidays is another good way to eleviate some stress. If you are hosting the meal, have others bring a side dish or dessert. Knowing that everyone will contribute to the dinner will create a little less stress on the morning of the holiday. As a person who likes to cook, I probably take too much of the preparations on my own shoulders. This is definitely a flaw on my behalf . I don’t consider myself a control freak, but I guess maybe I am. Another thing that can save time and sanity during the holiday rush is to start your shopping and Christmas cards early. By doing some early preparations we can lessen the stress that comes from being unprepared and waiting too long only to find the gifts you were trying to buy. You can also avoid long lines and crowds by shopping early.

As the weather starts cooling off and the leaves have fallen we must gear up to be busy , yet productive. Keeping all of the things in mind that I mentioned before, we should be able to head into the holidays with a positive attitude, a game plan, and dream of enjoying our time with family and friends. Don’t be a Scrooge and treat others with care and respect. And remember to enjoy your turkey day.

Until next time,

Cat