How To Enjoy The Holidays

Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love – Lao Tzu

The Holiday season is upon us and the joy it brings is in the air. The laughter, good tidings, coming together, and the food are great aspects of the coming holidays. What it can also bring with us is stress. Whether it be financial issues, family disagreements, or scheduling conflict. What can we do during this time of year to help us enjoy the holidays stress free or close to it? Here are some suggestions that can help you to enjoy the holidays with your family and help feel accomplished as well.

1. Don't Over Do It. Yes we get busy this time of year, many holiday parties, gifts, giving to others, and many other responsibilities. Take some time and step back and decide. Does this cause me more stress than happiness? Do I have time to do add this into my family’s life?
2. Get Holiday Shopping Done Early. Take a couple months before December to get ready. Take family pictures and an address list for those pictures in August or September. In October start a gift list and start a budget of how much you will spend. In November, send holiday cards, shop for holiday gifts (don't forget about you) and start laying out your plans for November and December.
3. Take Some Time For Yourself. Sometimes we need and want to be alone. Take some time to kick up your heels and take a bath, watch your favorite TV show, or read. These kinds of activities can really help an individual to refocus and destress.
4. Give Back. Give back to those that have helped you in the past or those that are bravely asking for help. When times are tough and the world seems bleak giving back to the community can remind others that humanity stands and people aren’t so bad after all. One can give food, clothing, money, employment, or someone to talk to to those that are in need.

This holiday season try to remember to have fun, enjoy your time with those cherished, give graciously, and have yourself a happy holiday season.

Anne K. Carlsen is a Provisional Clinical Social Worker (PCSW) in the Campbell County Medical Group Kid Clinic. The Kid Clinic is a school-based pediatric clinic offering medical care and counseling services for Campbell County students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade and their siblings ages 2 weeks and up. It is located at 800 Butler Spaeth Rd., across from St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. The Kid Clinic is open Monday-Friday from 8 am-5 pm. For more information, call 307-688-8700 or visit www.cchwyo.org/services/pediatrics/kid-clinic/. The Kid Clinic is a collaborative effort between Campbell County Health and Campbell County School District.