It can also be a time of year when people stress over finances, family drama and the chaos of travel. Sometimes it can steal your joy and make you wish you could time travel past it all.
I don't know what it will be like around your table and Christmas tree, but I hope it's a wonderful time for you and your family. After all, it should be "The most wonderful time of the year!"
Consider sticking to this plan...
1. DRAMA FREE - No matter how many crazy relatives try to "pull you" into gossip and family drama...refuse to participate. Choose to rise above. Diffuse it with laughter and joy. A healthy family should always have more comedy than drama.
2. PEACEMAKER - When we come together, it should be to celebrate the birth of "The Prince of Peace!" Jesus is our example. Seek to promote peace at your family gatherings. Offer love and respect to people even if they don't deserve it. Don't treat your family the way they treat you. Treat them the way God treats you.
3. STAY ON BUDGET - Financial stress is the last thing you need during the Holidays. Sometimes you can feel pressure to "overdue" it on your kids and relatives...however, they really don't need more gadgets and clothes as much as they need you. Give thoughtful gifts; not expensive gifts.
4. MAKE MEMORIES - You'll probably want to see everyone, but realistically you'll only be able to spend quality time with a few. Don't make your schedule based on trying to make everyone happy (which is impossible). Schedule based on maximizing the moments you have with your loved ones. Take pictures and remember the moment.
5. EAT SMART - I love to eat as much as anyone but when ignore myself on cookies and biscuits for a week, I pay the price. A lack of exercise and a ton of calories ends up making you grumpy and sleepy. Enjoy the good food, but don't go crazy. Find time to exercise.
6. LAUGH ALOT - Humor is infectious. The sound of people laughing is definitely more contagious than any cough, sniffle or sneeze. When laughter is shared, it brings people together and increases happiness. Scientifically, laughter can trigger healthy physical changes in your body. Humor and laughter can strengthen your immune system, boost your energy and shield you from the negative effects of stress. Best of all...it's FREE!
7. FOCUS ON FAITH - The presents and food are awesome, but don't forget to honor God who makes it all possible. Keeping your focus on Him has a way of bringing everything else into it's proper place. Jesus is the reason for the season.
@RussellHylton (Twitter & Instagram)
@bevhylton
Russell Beverly Hylton (Facebook)
www.russellhylton.com
@bfwcindy (Twitter & Instagram)
Bfwc Indianapolis (Facebook)
www.bfwc.net
