If you are dreading the holidays, you are not alone. Between the never-ending to do lists, functions to attend, deadlines to meet and the pressure of having to manage everything and hold it all together can prove difficult for many people.

What if there was another way – a way in which, instead of just ‘surviving’, you could actually enjoy the festivities without feeling like you need to escape to that desert island!

Try a few of the following tips to help you through the season and look after your wellbeing.

• Be prepared for conflict – know what to expect and be prepared. If being around family or certain friends will create conflict – be prepared. When family members are around each other, they are triggered right back to the way things used to be, so naturally arguments may ensue. Plan that you will only stay a few hours / days and have your excuses ready to make a quick escape if things escalate or try clearing the air to remain cordial at any events.

 

• Have a plan for next year’s studies – make a list of what you need to do in January for your course. Planning ahead takes so much stress out of college work.

 

• Look back on what you have achieved this year, along with your course work, you have made it through another year! Take time to reflect on all the positive things that happened and the part you played in them.

 

• Do what you can afford – do not put pressure on yourself to ‘have to’ buy this or ‘do that.’ Faithful friends will understand your situation. If you fear being judged – are they loyal friends?

 

• Solitude – it’s extremely important to snatch some time on your own to gather your thoughts. If we feel stressed, we are automatically in fight or flight mode. The only way to get out of this is to go somewhere on your own to find calm again. Remember, you do not have to listen to any moaning or demands. You have the right to walk away.

 

• Buy as many things as possible online to avoid the absolute chaos of shopping centres and shops. If you must, go early in the morning on the quieter days like a Monday or Tuesday.

 

• Give everyone something to do – don’t feel like you must do everything yourself because you just don’t. Ask people for help and support as much as possible, especially with decorating the house, putting up the tree, shopping, wrapping, food preparation and washing up.

 

• Create a calm space for yourself in the house – grab some cozy blankets, cushions, magazines, books – anything to distract yourself from the madness and focus entirely on yourself.

 

• Ease into the morning: Set your alarm clock a little earlier. Take this extra time to do a little five-minute morning meditation. Enjoy every sip of that coffee, take your time to prepare a heart-warming breakfast on your own before everyone joins you. This will set you up in a more relaxed mood to tackle each day.

 

And there you go – a few small tips for a happy student Christmas. Have fun and enjoy 😊

 

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