The Holidays: Obligation or Opportunity?

Start the holidays out this year with a resolution to eliminate obligation, and look for the opportunities in your celebration. You'll find go through the season relaxed, and refreshed. Guests and family will find you more enjoyable to be with, and you'll have a more memorable holiday experience.

Think Before Committing

Your first step is to identify where you can whittle down your obligations. Let's face it. Holidays are full of “must go”, “must see” and “must do”. This year, discontinue your tradition of accepting every invitation. Think before you commit to making food, giving gifts or attending parties. Don't hesitate to politely refuse.

Enjoy Your Holidays

Then think about how you would like to spend your holidays. After all, there is no other time of year that offers so many opportunities for fun, entertainment and service to others. Community calendars are full of events hosted by civic and religious groups. Make plans for a cozy dinner with your closest friends. Volunteer with human services groups to deliver food and gifts to families in need. Spend an afternoon making decorations with your kids.

If you've spent past holiday seasons running from one obligation to the other, it might be time to say “no” to “must”. Take a different approach and end your season satisfied and stress-free.

photo by Stella Levi