We're 2 weeks away from Christmas and while everyone else is decking the halls, you might be in full freak out mode with all the tasks still left on your to-do list. Here's the thing I want you to keep in mind. You're more fun to be around when you're actually (you guessed it) having fun so use the resources below to determine what goes on your own naughty or nice list as you countdown to Christmas.
Write
Because Christmas involves human beings and we happen to be one of them, there's a good chance everything won't go according to plan. Activities might get cancelled, postponed or just not meet expectations. Not to worry. You're going to reduce your stress and focus that energy on the things that matter. Make a list of what I'm calling your Christmas Crucials. Here's the catch. You only get three. Not ten, seven or even 4. Three activities that are very specific and meaningful to you. Here are mine:
I want one nice family photo with everyone dressed up, smiling and looking at the camera
I want to bake cookies from scratch with my kids and husband while Christmas music plays in the background
I want to sing The Hallelujah Chorus at the top of my lungs with the church choir on Christmas morning
If these 3 things happen, regardless of what the rest of my to-do list looks like, it'll be a wonderful Christmas. What are your 3 Christmas Crucials?
Eliminate
Let's face it. Money can be a big stressor this time of year and for good reason. Expectations of wow gifts, show-stopping attire and magical experiences aren't cheap. But we won't be falling into that trap this year, right?
One of the best gifts you can give yourself is to eliminate financial obligations before that bill money magically finds its way into your Target shopping cart.
It might feel more restrictive leading up to Christmas day but imagine how good you'll feel starting the New Year off with good financial habits (and less credit card debt). After all, there's no price tag on peace of mind...
Learn
Christmas falls into the favorite holiday category for quite a few people and that could be so because of all the smells associated with this time of year. From pine needles to gingerbread cookies and even the aroma of a warm fire.
Did you know our sense of smell is said to be 10,000 times more sensitive than any of our other senses? Capitalize on that this holiday season to keep your stress levels down. Look for these stress-busting essential oils in your candles, lotions and cleaning products to help you feel zen all holiday long.
Lavender
Lemon Balm or Yuzu
Bergamot
Clary Sage
Jasmine
Love
My favorite thing to do especially around this time of year is to perform random acts of kindness. I love bringing a little sunshine to someone's day and it seriously never gets old. That's why I'm buying a few of you a cup of something awesome or a sweet treat at Starbucks today!
Just click on this link for the barcode, screenshot it and ask your Starbucks cashier to scan it instead of paying with your own funds. Please be a nice person and limit yourself to one treat so we can spread more love around. Us mamas gotta take care of each other so pay it forward and #spreadthewellth this Christmas.
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Until next time, live and be WELL!