It’s a time of peace on earth, so how do you find it amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season? We did a little research and gathered some tips that you may find helpful.
1. Begin your day with gratitude
Before your feet hit the floor, think of something for which you are grateful. Then, make a point to carry gratitude with you throughout the day.
2. Let go of expectations
Finding peace is about letting go of things that cause you stress and focusing on the things that bring you joy. From snowflakes to cupcakes, find your joy.
3. Don’t be afraid to say no
It’s the time of year to prioritize and put your focus on things that matter to you. If you spread yourself too thin, you won’t have time savor the blessing of the season.
4. Set boundaries in gift-giving
Shopping in malls and big box stores at the busiest time of year takes the peace right out of you! Scale back and focus on giving gifts of your time. And if you simply can’t, shop main street in downtown areas that are more peaceful.
5. Acknowledge what you’re feeling and be open about it
If you share your quest for finding peace in the season, family and friends will help you do it, and may also start doing it themselves.
6. Schedule peaceful moments
Set time aside for yourself and put it on the calendar. Read a Christmas story, watch a holiday movie, take a walk, listen to music. It’s therapeutic.
7. Go easy on yourself
It’s often easy to give other grace, but not so much yourself. Don’t kick yourself for not getting Christmas cards in the mail or only baking one batch of cookies. Chances are good that if you didn’t get it done, there’s good reason for it.
8. Spend time doing things that brought you joy as a child
Go ice skating or play in the snow. Drink hot cocoa. Peace can come from doing little things that bring your joy.
9. Find the quiet
Have you stood outside and looked at the stars in the quiet of the night lately? You’ll be amazed what it will do for you. Peace is found in quiet moments.
10. Remember the reason for the season
Need we say more? There’s only one important gift at Christmas, and you know his name.
This holiday season, we wish you peace on earth, as it is in heaven.