Handling The Holidays

Surviving the Holidays?

Tips for conquering (rather than muddling through) holidays, parties, and family get-togethers

Let’s Put it into Perspective

Is this how you are feeling about the holidays right now?◦12 Pains of Christmas

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsvY8PbhZi0

◦What kind of things are you thinking about already?

◦What kinds of feelings are you having?



Get Your Mind RightAttitude of Gratitude

◦Remember what is truly important◦What are your values?◦Focus on the positive◦Learn to control your thoughts

But…Don’t sweat the small stuffLet go of things that are out of

your controlAsk yourself, “Will this matter in

5 years?”Learn to say, “NO.”

◦Get comfortable with it. ◦It’s ok!◦Try it with me….

But, but…Get organized and plan ahead

◦De-clutter◦Write it down!◦Make a plan of attack

Try something new◦Recipe, hair style◦Change your routine

Volunteer◦Take mind off self

Put First Things FirstTake care of yourself

◦Eat right◦Exercise◦Hang out with a friend◦Rent a movie, watch the game◦Take a warm bath, light the candles◦Pray/meditate, quiet yourself

Live for today/enjoy every moment◦You can’t get it back

Answering the Tough Questions

So, find a job yet?◦People are not trying to be rude.◦No one is trying to upset you.◦People care. That is why they are

asking.◦Prepare ahead of time what you

might say. Keep it focused and positive. Don’t let your mind wander off after. “I’m currently seeking opportunities as…” “I’m involved in a number of things

that…”


Will you participate in the gift exchange?◦Don’t feel like you have to say yes.

You don’t have to buy for everyone!

◦Keep it simple. Say yes to some, not all.

◦Consider making things to give away. • Candle• Keepsake• Something from the

shop• Get creative!

• Cookies• Warm bread• Soup, chili• Ornament


Can you bring a dish to pass?◦Bring something simple.◦Clarify ahead of time what is needed

and pick something you are comfy with.

◦Don’t feel like you have to be a host. Let others take a turn.

◦Suggest potluck style wherever you are going.


Can you volunteer?◦Double-edged sword◦Take your mind off of yourself, but

don’t overdo!◦Pick the right opportunities.◦Don’t say yes to everyone. It’s ok to

say, NO◦Ideas

Shelter Meal program School


Honey, will you come to the party with me?◦Whether you have the nice dress or

suit or whatever “getup” you need, remember what is truly important. It’s not about the show, the food, the gifts, the drinks, or anything external. It’s about relationships and spending time with someone you love or care about.


Consider going to support your loved one and focus on the positive.

When asked, “What do you do?” use your 30/60 second commercial and have a ball! You could get a job out of this!

If you go, make sure you mingle and have a good attitude.

Prepare your mind ahead of time. Be grateful for who you are, who your partner is, and what you have together.

Making Your Money StretchWhat are YOUR ideas?Homemade holiday gifts

http://www.stretcher.com/stories/09/09oct19d.cfm

Say no to excess parties you really don’t need to be at, baking dozens of cookies for the cookie exchange or bake sale, or getting pulled into anything you really don’t NEED to do

Plan ahead for meals http://www.stretcher.com/stories/08/08oct20d.cfm





In Conclusion…Fall back on your core valuesControl your thoughts and you

will control your feelingsPlan aheadTrust your gutSay, “No” moreHaving a good holiday or a bad

holiday is a choice

Thank You…Questions?

Now go and conquer those holiday issues?

Make it a year to remember!

Handling The Holidays

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