If you’re a parent, this time of year has a lot of activity and some of it has to be kept hidden from small, prying fingers and wide open, innocent looking eyes. It can be a recipe for anxiety. With a little help, you don’t have to go down that road.
Planning is the most important thing you can do. Get out the calendar and start marking dates. You won’t want to miss the kid’s Christmas pageant, and don’t forget the office party. You may also want to note down the “mail by” dates. This will help keep you focused on the most important events of the season.
Don’t try to be Supermom or Superdad. It doesn’t work out very well. Delegate responsibility where and when you can. Older children can address Christmas cards and younger ones can help stuff envelopes and/or put on stamps. Finding appropriate jobs for everyone in the family not only helps you avoid anxiety, it helps them feel like they’re a part of the program.
You may want to choose your shopping times. Evenings and weekends are going to be the worst times to go out, even if it’s just a grocery run. Try to do your shopping in the morning, if you can. Most people will be at work, and not out in the malls. If you have a job, the same holds true for the weekend. If you get there early, you’re likely to have less of a crowd to deal with…unless everyone else has decided the same.
It’s important not to overextend yourself. You may want to attend every function you’re invited to, but it is probably not a good idea. Pick the ones that have the most meaning, either for you or for your family and stick to those. Getting overtired is not going to be helpful in reducing anxiety levels.
Don’t forget to take some time for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a lot, maybe have your spouse watch the kids while you have a luxurious bubble bath. That half hour may be one of the best things you can do for yourself.
In all of the hustle and bustle of the season, let’s not forget the Reason. The celebration of Christ’s birth is an important part of our faith. He is the best gift we’ve ever been given.
With a little effort, Christmas can be that fun, magical time you remember from childhood, especially if you have the opportunity to see it through a child’s eyes. Have a good time, and avoid some of the pitfalls so you can be anxiety free.