From The Positive Perspective.......
Tip #1: Reflect on the goal of the holiday. If the goal of the holiday is to spend time with others who you do not see often, then speak to them and decide ahead of time what the holiday should look like. Can we all contribute food and/or activities so as to not make it overwhelming for one person?
Tip #2: Decide now if there will be gifts involved and dollar limits, etc. Can the expectation change from everyone buying for everyone to a grab bag where each one involved picks a name and buys just one special gift for another family member, instead of being overwhelmed with having to buy 20 gifts that are most likely not well-thought out and make January a month of debt? One well-intended gift can mean so much more than a pile of things we don't remember getting and from whom we received them.
Tip#3: If there are no large holiday plans and you are away from family, consider using that day to volunteer at a local shelter or place where your talents would be most appreciated. Giving to others on a holiday is a wonderful gift to you.
Tip #4: If there are young children involved in the holiday, consider speaking to them about donating toys/clothes that they no longer wear or use to someone in need. This act can help to instill the spirit of giving at a young age as well as clean out the toy box for some new toys that may be arriving shortly. Have your children deliver the donations themselves. You will be surprised at the impact it can have.
Tip #5: If you are planning the holiday with a significant other, be sure you are making these plans together. What are the expectations that you both have? Do we have to have 5 vegetables with the turkey or will 2 be acceptable? Is it necessary to have pumpkin, apple and pecan pie and do they all have to be homemade? You decide.
Tip #6: Take time to relax and enjoy the holiday. If you have company to your home, the dishes can wait til tomorrow. Enjoy spending time with those who surround your dinner table. Be thankful for their presence and all the blessings of this past year.
As always, thank you for looking at the topic of the upcoming holidays...........From The Positive Perspective.
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