A guide to setting healthy boundaries for your overall wellness this hectic festive season

Navigating Through the Holiday Hustle

Danah Gutierrez

<p>The Christmas rush is felt everywhere—with its festive cheer and joyful gatherings, it can still bring a whirlwind of activities that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. From planning and executing parties to purchasing and wrapping gifts, these are added tasks to our already-busy calendars. Every event seems important, and if we’re not mindful, we can be frantically pulled in all directions. Establishing healthy boundaries is crucial during this time to ensure that we prioritize our well-being. In this guide, we will explore practical strategies to help you set and maintain boundaries for a more balanced and fulfilling holiday season.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Reflect on your priorities and what really matters to you.</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/efc5c0d7-16ca-4a7e-8e68-be8216643a34_3.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>Before diving headfirst into the holiday rush, take a moment to reflect on your values and priorities. What aspects of the holidays hold the most meaning for you? Whether it&#x27;s spending quality time with loved ones, engaging in festive traditions, or simply taking time for self-care, identifying your priorities will guide you in setting boundaries that align with your values. Know that you don’t have to cave in to the consumerist pressure of the season.</p><blockquote>What aspects of the holidays hold the most meaning for you?</blockquote><div><br/></div><div><strong>It’s okay to say no.</strong></div><p>Saying no can be a powerful tool in boundary-setting. While it&#x27;s tempting to want to participate in every holiday gathering or event, overcommitting can lead to burnout. Be honest with yourself about your capacity and politely decline invitations or commitments that may stretch you too thin. Establish a limit on the number of times you’ll attend gatherings per week, or set a maximum budget you’re comfortable with when it comes to gift-giving. Remember, saying no allows you to say yes to what truly matters.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Related Story: </strong><a href="/wellness/mind-and-spirituality/how-to-deal-with-loneliness-during-the-holidays/32065" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How To Deal With Loneliness During The Holidays</a></div><strong>Create a realistic schedule.</strong><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/12782ae3-2fe5-4abd-a1fb-768379ce88e8_1.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>In line with the point above, craft a realistic holiday schedule by prioritizing essential tasks, events, and traditions. Allocate time for rest and relaxation to avoid overloading your calendar. Calculate traffic when mapping out your routes, as the holiday hustle is in full swing, and a lot of people are out and about. A well-balanced schedule will help you enjoy the holiday festivities without sacrificing your mental and physical well-being.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Set digital boundaries.</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/f76fc4ab-caab-4889-ba7a-470fa35efad1_2.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>We are in today&#x27;s hyper-connected world where almost everyone is so easily accessible with just a few taps from a device. Constant notifications and messages can add to holiday stress. Consider setting boundaries for your digital devices during the holiday season. Designate specific times to check emails and messages, and learn to put down your phone when in the middle of social gatherings so you can be fully present and savor the festivities. True enjoyment comes when we are totally experiencing something without the pressure to post everything online.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Talk about your needs. </strong></div><p>People aren’t mind-readers. Open and honest communication is essential when setting boundaries. Clearly express your limits to friends, family, and colleagues, so they understand your priorities and expectations. Sharing your needs helps foster understanding and ensures that others respect them, especially when it comes to schedule, party contributions, and gift budgets. It’s unfair to expect people to know what’s on your mind, so learn to speak up when things are starting to get too demanding for you. </p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Rest and stick to your self-care routine.</strong></div><p>Amid the holiday hustle and bustle, don&#x27;t forget to prioritize self-care. Whether it&#x27;s taking a quiet moment to yourself, indulging in a favorite activity, or getting a good night&#x27;s sleep, self-care is essential for maintaining balance. Make a conscious effort to stick to your daily self-care routine, or consider that perhaps it is time to start creating one, if you haven’t yet.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Bring others in and plan together.</strong></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/d36f65fb-4355-42b2-9245-c021c4589bf1_4.png" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><p>The best part about this season is the spirit of giving and togetherness. You don&#x27;t have to bear the weight of all holiday responsibilities on your own. Delegate tasks and collaborate with others to share the workload. Involving others not only lightens your load but also encourages a sense of community and shared joy.</p><div><br/></div><p>***</p><div><br/></div><p>As the holiday rush approaches, remember that setting boundaries is an act of self-care and self-respect. We cannot pour from an empty cup. By prioritizing your well-being, you&#x27;ll not only navigate the holiday season more smoothly but also create space for meaningful connections and cherished moments. Embrace the power of saying no, communicate your needs, and make time for self-care to ensure a joyful and balanced holiday experience. We take care of others better when we take care of ourselves first.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Related Story: </strong><a href="/wellness/mind-and-spirituality/how-to-avoid-holiday-stress/34247" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">7 Science-Proven Ways To Cut Holiday Stress In 5 Minutes Or Less</a></div>

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Navigating Through the Holiday Hustle

Navigating Through the Holiday Hustle

Danah Gutierrez

Published Nov 28, 2023 12:43 PM PHT

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Updated Nov 28, 2023 01:04 PM PHT

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