I can’t believe it’s already holiday time. This year strangely went by so fast! You would think it would’ve gone slowly given that we had to miss out on so much that we had originally planned. We’ve also had to stay home more than usual. Somehow it still went quickly – even faster than usual it seems.
Nonetheless, here we are at the holiday season already! However, it’s not too late to slow down and try to simplify this Christmas.
ways to simplify now
- Write down some fun activities (preferably free) that you can do with your family over the next few weeks. Make these a priority over everything else – because this quality time is what matters.
- Plan an activity that involves reading through the birth of Jesus in the Bible. Set aside time to cherish this story and what it means for us.
- Buy less gifts and make the ones you do buy more meaningful and special.
- Buy experience gifts for your family and friends. Most people do not need more stuff!
- As you decorate this year, only put out what you absolutely love. Just because Aunt Betsy gave you that snowman (that you really don’t like) – you do not have to put it out.
ways to simplify next year
- The best way to simplify next year is to keep track of what worked and didn’t work this year.
- After the holidays I take about 20 minutes to write down (or record in Evernote) what worked and what didn’t work and any tips I want to tell my future self. This has been a game changer.
- As you pack up your Christmas decorations plan to give away any items that do not bring you joy.
- Plan any special events for next year and set up a reminder on when to buy tickets, etc.
The most important thing is to remember why we are celebrating! The birth of Jesus leads to His death on the cross (for our sins) and then to His resurrection – Hallelujah!!
Celebrating with those you love the most is the best part of this holiday. It’s also a time to be as generous as you can be to those around you. That can include volunteering, cooking for others, inviting them into your home, buying gifts and donating to those in need.
Whatever you do, make time to slow down and enjoy this season and focus on creating more peace in they days ahead.
Merry Christmas!!