Only 3 more sleeps until Christmas Day. Have you finished your Christmas shopping? Have you wrapped all those gifts? Do you have social engagements back to back until December 27? What's the plan for the BIG day?
Some people LOVE Christmas. They love the anticipation, buying gifts, wrapping gifts, unwrapping gifts, baking, cooking, visiting, catching up with friends and family, writing out Christmas cards, hanging lights, organising everyone, setting and decorating the table, cleaning, craft with the kids... they LOVE it all! Can you believe it?
If you are not THAT girl (or guy), you don't have to be a total Grinch! You can enjoy the holiday too! Obviously you may have to do a few things that you don't "love" but you don't have to do anything that will actually hurt. Whether it's Christmas Shopping, Dinner with the In-Laws or a whole weekend with your own family, it doesn't have to be painful. Here are a few tips for surviving the last few days of the Holidays and maybe have some fun along the way.
1. Stay Hydrated...
One of the most common causes of headaches is dehydration. True Story! So, keep sipping that water. This is especially important during social gatherings when alcohol, fatty finger foods, sugary foods and drinks are in abundance. In fact, stay healthy! Check out this link for Healthy Holiday Eating Tips.
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2. Plan Ahead...
Plan for some downtime in between social activities. Lots of bloggers will tell you it's important to Plan Ahead for everything if you want to cope with the holiday rush! Plan for time to do your shopping and wrapping gifts. Plan for the costs involved too. If you are facing the last few days of Christmas and you haven't planned ahead yet, it's not too late! Start now! Remember to plan something really fun to do after Christmas so you have something to look forward to. Life Hacker has more tips about surviving parties for introverts.
3. Have QUIET TIME/ SPACE...
Don't be afraid to take some time for yourself before, after and even during Family Gatherings. Head to the Loo for a moment of peace and quiet. These gatherings will be noisy because when you put more than two or three people in a small space (and then add some kids into the mix), things are going to get loud. It's a fact.
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4. Dress for Success...
Choose something to wear that is comfortable and looks good. There will be photos, you don't want to be afraid of the selfie-stick. While you want to look great, you also need to be super comfortable. These things tend to make for a long day and if that bra isn't your comfiest, you will be desperate to "Free the Girls" by dessert! You will find it easier to relax and have fun with the family if you are feeling comfortable.
5. Conversate...
I couldn't resist making up a word. Have some conversation starters prepared and prepare some answers for the common questions that the Aunties will ask. How is work? Have you done any travel? What was the last movie you saw? What's new? Have you set a 'date'? Expect that small talk will happen and keep it in the plan. Also, understand that some conversations may go over your head or be about things you missed. That's okay. Ask lots of questions. Most people are happy to talk about themselves, so you just need to give them an opportunity.
6. Countdown...
It's only a day. You can do this...
7. Stay Positive..
Look for the good. Don't try to work out the ulterior motive behind that weird Secret Santa Gift or why the other female family members aren't including you in the conversation. Despite how things appear, everyone else is probably just as tired and uncomfortable on the inside as you are feeling. Pay people compliments and enjoy the smiles.
8. Play a Game...
There has to be someone at these gatherings that you like... right? Count how many times Aunty Pat offers everyone seconds. See who can get the most people to yawn. Play hangman under the table. Create a scavenger hunt and award points for things like, a photo of uncle Fred asleep. See who can make the longest paper chain from old wrapping paper. Don't worry about everyone else, you two will have a blast!
9. When in doubt... find the kids and play baysitter!
The adults will love you for it. Kids can be really entertaining when you aren't actually responsible for them!
I hope your Christmas is absolutely wonderful.
