Happy Holidays Everyone...some thoughts that may help you through the holidays!

[Likinikki]

2010 has flown by for me and has been a roller coaster of a ride! The economy has impacted everyone, some much more than others. And the impact hasn't just been financial. Attitudes, emotions, plans, and mindsets have all been affected.

For many of us, the holiday season is a time that is anticipated with both joy and anxiety. Sure, we love the celebrations, the family traditions, and we cherish the memories of holidays gone by; but along with them, we add the stresses of preparation, expectations and the fear of letdowns, or family squabbles that we have experienced in the past. With this in mind, here are some things that I hope can be helpful in getting through the holidays:

1. Set manageable expectations. Understand that you can't do everything, and with our current economic realities, you might not be able to do everything you've done in the past. If this is true for you, there might be a sense of disappointment. Still, it doesn't have to ruin your family's holiday season. So, be realistic about what you can do.

2. Remember the holiday season does not eliminate sadness or loneliness. Problems and difficulties arise even during the holiday season. And, for some of us, the holiday season evokes painful memories from recent events or the loss of loved ones in the past. Give room for yourself and your family to experience these feelings. Try not to let them become a consuming focus.

3. Acknowledge the past, but look toward the future. Life brings changes. Determine to enjoy this holiday season for what it is. Acknowledging the past, whether it was good or bad, is appropriate. But, if you find that this year has been a rough one and you don't anticipate having the best holiday season ever, try not to set yourself up by comparing today with the past.

4. Develop and encourage a life of gratitude. Gratitude is an attribute that transcends circumstances...no matter what your circumstances, Your circumstances may never change, but you can always change the way you view your situation...and, this can make all the difference...exercise "Thank Therapy."

5. Do something for someone else. Even if this has been a difficult year for you and your family...enrich your lives by getting involved in serving others and your community.

6. Enjoy simple pleasures. Try holiday-related activities that are either free or low cost like, driving around to look at holiday decorations, baking Christmas cookies, finding new recipes, and assign every family member a specific dish to prepare for dinner,

7. Enjoy a family holiday tradition. Family traditions can create meaningful memories. So, from the silly to the sentimental, if your family has some holiday traditions, try to include them in your holiday plan.

8. Carve out some time for yourself!! Create some space during the holidays for you to recharge your own batteries.

The holidays can be difficult time for many people. Please keep an open heart to those who may be suffering. I hope each of you find time to embrace the TRUE SPIRIT of the holidays, and rather than being MEAN SPIRITED or a SCROOGE...that you spread PEACE and JOY that is sign of a CARING heart.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

[Sonya Playmate]

Very nice nikki...Everyone have a wonderful Merry Christmas! xo

[sajay]

Merry Christmas!!! This year freaking flew bye....

[gooose]

Merry Christmas to you as well LN. One of my New Year's resolution is to see Likinikki.
Hope to see you soon.

[Guest083013]

[DallasRain]

awesome--thanks

have a great holiday!!!!!!!!!!

[cowboy84]

I just wanted to wish everyone a merry christmas and I hope everyone had fun and be safe...

[Manster711]

Very well siad Ms LN. My New Year's resolution is also to see you this New Year

[23xRugburn]

Very well put LN. No one likes a Scrooge or mean sprited people this time of the year. Relax and love your fellow man and enjoy holiday cheer sounds like great advice.

[Bibi Joy]

I like I like!!!

[tim_29m]

Words for all of us to live by LN.

[Darianis31]

Very well put and definitely some points we can all improve on. LN is one I might have to take the plunge with in '11 if newbie friendly. Have a safe and happy new year.