It’s that time of year again where we all start to burn the candle at both ends and by the time Xmas Day comes around we are to exhausted to enjoy it.
Over the next few weeks it is really important to focus on your self-care to ensure you don’t burnout either before Xmas or through the holiday period.
Here are our top 5 ways to avoid Christmas burnout:
1. Learn to say no. You don’t have to attend every Xmas party, drinks gathering, picnic etc. It is perfectly okay to say no. You don’t have to make an excuse or feel bad about it. If you have been to far too many parties or events and are feeling the impact then start saying no to some of them and save your energy.
2. Try to eat well. Yes we know it’s the season for all things delicious but the excess sweets, food and alcohol will take a toll on your overall health and energy. To counter-act the impact of eating too much sugar and too many carbs, try eating fresh vegetables more often than you normally would. Instead of grabbing a sandwich for lunch, make it a salad so that when you eat out for dinner you know you can indulge without having too big an impact on your body. Another option is to eat a wholefood meal before you leave i.e. salad and protein so that your body is fuelled well and you are not hungry. This makes it a little easier to not over indulge at an event.
3. Don’t over over spend. Yes it’s easier said than done however the Christmas budget blowout can end up impacting your mental health well into the New Year. Christmas is about family and friends not material items. Think about ways to add value to your celebrations through meaningful activities instead of gift exchanges. Plan ahead. Get everyone on board to limit spending on gifts and initiate some fun games that everyone can play. The laughter and memories will last far longer than the bought gifts.
4. Do what you want to do not what you think you have to. So many people spend Christmas Day doing what they think is expected of them by their family. There are always ways to compromise to ensure you are getting what you need and meeting what others want you to do. Putting your needs or wants first is not selfish, it is essential to maintaining your sense of self and living a fulfilled life.
5. Schedule some YOU time. Whether you have to put it in your diary or calendar or make some appointments now, make sure you schedule in some you time. By you time we mean time where you do what you love without interruption. Whether it’s getting a massage, taking a class, spending time at the beach or just sitting in a park reading a book. Whatever it is that makes you feel good. This allows you to recharge your batteries. If your batteries are empty you can’t keep giving to others so recharging is essential.
Whatever you decide to do, always ensure it is the best option for you before anyone else. That way you know you are looking after you as well as the needs of others. For more information please contact us at anytime.
