My Guide to Enjoying the Holidays

Sweater & Tights: H&M Hat: Thrift Boots: Nasty Gal Shades: @Sunnie_Galore

We are only days away from the true start of the holiday season, at least in my book, Thanksgiving.  And this is how I plan to remain sane the entire time.

1.       REST – This one is always big on my list regardless of what time of year it is. But it is very important for me during the holidays to be intentional about my rest.  We can get so caught up in the hype that we forget that we cannot be all things and that our energy is a limited resource. I take my weekend time very seriously. I find ways to be in one place for several hours. Also, I make it my yearly tradition to take off from work the days between Christmas and the New Year just to lay low and get ready for the coming year.  There is nothing like having quiet time to count my blessings, reflect, read and binge watch TV.

2.       Exercise – This year I strived to be more consistent with my working out and it has definitely paid off. I see a change in my body, energy level, and emotional well-being. It has really helped me to remain motivated and positive on my toughest days. Getting through a work out gives me that extra push I need. And I definitely need to stay focused now more than ever, because there are so many food and life distractions. I know that working out will keep me on track. I won’t have to go into the New Year behind but ahead. Working out will not be my new year’s resolution for 2020.

3.       Budget – Although this is third on the list, this is definitely a top priority for me. I take my budgets very seriously, I have an excel spreadsheet to prove it. Every year for the holidays, I give myself a food budget and a gift budget.  I always have a certain amount that I plan to spend on gifts and I stick to it. Starting the new year on E is a no, period. We can’t allow companies to be in the black while we are in the red. Be honest with yourself and others about what you can spend. Like I always tell myself, I am the only one paying my bills. 

4.       Enjoy: stay in the moment – Sometimes I think we often become so excited about the holidays that we forget to experience them. My plan this year is to make sure I stop and take it all in. I am allowing myself to soak in all the love, laughter and time spent with family and friends. This is the one time of the year that we all stop and are intentional about doing these things and I’m not mad at it.

The holidays are definitely my favorite time of year. But it can also be a very exhausting time of year. I hope this guide helps you to think about the things you can put in place to make sure we take this time and can be fully present. Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Holidays Loves!

With Love,

Cree