5 Tips for Successful Holidays During COVID-19

The winter holiday season is a deeply meaningful time for many people. It is a season of joy, excitement, sharing happiness, gatherings, and showing loved ones that they are thought of or appreciated. However, even in a normal year, the holidays can also bring up negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and stress. We all know that this year brings the added challenge of a global pandemic which has placed us in positions of having to make difficult choices and sacrifices in order to protect ourselves and loved ones. The holidays are going to look different this year, but different does not mean that they cannot be just as special.

Here are a few tips for maintaining emotional well-being and increasing the likelihood of holiday success:

1. Plan Ahead

Being proactive and making organized plans can reduce stress. Make a list of things you need to do and when you would like to have them done by. Think about the people you would like to gift or reach out to. Perhaps you may expand your circle this year to include more people. Staying socially connecting is so important during this time of physical distancing. Arrange to connect with those that bring you joy.

2. Be Flexible

Understand that although you may plan for things, something could happen to throw you off course. These are unprecedented times. Maintaining mental flexibility will allow you to more easily move in an alternate direction if needed. Rigidity and inflexibility will be more likely to result in stress and other negative emotions.

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