By Ashley McIlwain

Christmas is my favorite time of year. I know I’m not alone in my sentiments about this holly jolly season. What’s not to love? Christmas music, decorations, presents, time with family, hot cocoa, and Christmas trees. Sigh. Not to mention the reason for it all – the arrival of Jesus, Savior to the world. It’s such a joyful occasion from start to finish.

Unfortunately, not everyone feels this way. Sometimes it’s out of personal preference where Christmas just isn’t their thing. Others want to enjoy it but that’s overshadowed by the running around that can come with the season. Financial strain, social calendar overload, and increased stress can all steal the reason for the season.

That’s why I’ve put together a guide to help you not only maintain your sanity but to insert the joy back into your Christmas.

  1. Prioritize. No doubt you will be pulled in a thousand different directions this Christmas. Company Christmas party this weekend, get together with friends next weekend, volunteer at church Tuesday night, bake goodies for the kids’ Christmas play Wednesday night, and go shopping on Thursday. This of course is all in addition to the usual craziness you call life. It’s so important this time of year to learn to prioritize. What’s most important? What do you really want to do? What do you need to do? Figure out what is most valuable to you, prioritize those things, and allow some of the other invites and duties to drop off the list.
  2. Savor the moments. Take time to stop and smell the roses. Christmas is overflowing with precious, wonderful, and fun moments that you don’t want to miss out on just because you’re in over your head. Instead of rushing through your checklist of things to do, take the time to enjoy them. Maybe you’re having a baking day with your sisters. Don’t miss out on those special memories because in your mind you’re already focused on your next commitment. Be present, and savor the moments of this Christmas season.
  3. Learn to say, “No!” The bottom line of life in general, but especially during Christmas, is that you literally will not be able to do everything you are asked to do. You physically cannot do it all. It’s up to you to prioritize your obligations, and then learn to say, “No!” from time to time. It’s tough turning people or activities down, but it’s imperative to learn the lesson of quality not quantity.  Better to do less but give more of yourself to those events and people than to spread yourself too thin, which in turn piles on the stress and eliminates the true pleasure that those moments would otherwise possess. You’ve got to say, “No!” when needed.
  4. Don’t forget to laugh. Have you ever been so frazzled that you thought you would burst into tears? Well, I know I have more times than I would like to admit. What I’ve found as a miracle cure to those moments is laughter. There’s just something about laughing that releases all of the tension and stress mounting deep within me. You can’t take life too seriously all of the time. Sometimes you need to “let your hair down,” and enjoy the people, places, and things surrounding you. So, if this Christmas finds you close to tears, stop and find something or someone that will make you laugh. Trust me, it works like a charm.
  5. Relax. Speaking of laughter, just hearing the word “relax” may make you burst into it. It can be extremely difficult to maneuver relaxation into the chaos of life, let alone Christmas time. Alas, it must be done. It’s incredibly important to take moments to relax, refuel, recharge, and then get back on your horse and go. If you don’t, you’re just going to break under the pressures that can often come with the season of giving. Whether it’s five minutes with your eyes closed and feet propped up or thirty minutes to read your favorite book, find time to relax so that you can tackle your to do’s with gusto and appreciate the activities you sign up for.
  6. Remember what it’s all about. Above all else, remember what Christmas is all about. It’s not about tinsel, parties, wrapping paper, or bows. It’s not even about gifts but rather a singular gift – our Savior. When you feel like your world is caving in on you, take time to remind yourself that the Christmas season is about celebrating the hope, love, and joy that came on that precious night so long ago when Jesus Christ arrived as the ultimate gift to each of us that is willing to receive Him. Talk about a reason to celebrate – that’s as good as it gets!

As you navigate this Christmas season, don’t forget to prioritize, savor the moments, learn to say, “No,” laugh, relax, and remember what it’s all about. May you be filled with the love, hope, joy, and peace that God gave us when He gifted us with His Son. Let the true reason for the season fill you with the strength and joy you need to relish it.

Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord.  ~ Luke 2:10-11

Copyright © 2011, Foundation Restoration.  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No reproduction allowed without written permission from Foundation Restoration and/or the author.