How to avoid Burnout this Christmas

This time of year can cause all sorts of stress and burn out. Here’s how to avoid that possibility, even before you get going into December!

The first important piece to be cognisant of, is that December and the winter months in fact call us to be cosy, in-doors, with more hibernating feels than summer festival feels! Of course Christmas, and this time of year is the very opposite of cosy, hibernation vibes. Although fun and nourishing in part, for many of us the endless round of tasks and parties, can in fact take their toll.

So, what can we do to avoid feelings of burn out and despair?

  • Pace yourself. Schedule downtime sufficient to balance out all the parties and festivities

  • Prioritise who, what, where, when early on. Then stick to giving your all ( 80%) to the people/events/trips that really matter.

  • In a world where our mass consumption is a real issue, consider arranging secret santa gifts, where everyone gets one great gift, instead of 7/8 bits of tat. Everyone is happier and you spend less/consume less

  • Agree the household tasks and share them out. Get the kids involved, in an age appropriate way of course, and don’t be afraid to let some traditions slide in favour of new ones that feel better today

  • Diarise daily time to check in with yourself

  • Diarise (minimum) weekly time to check in with a loved in

  • Check in on elderly or more needing friends, neighbours, relatives. They’ll feel better, and so will you!

  • Actively engage in your Community - mulled wine and mince pies on the street? Chocolate treasure hunt? Glass of champagne Christmas morning? Being part of community is essential for our collective wellbeing

  • Give yourself permission to say NO when you feel NO inside. Even if that means a change of plans mid-stream. Don’t overly force

  • Give youself permission to have loads of fun and laugh alot. Guilt free. ( i know that many, many people find this one particularly tough)

  • Use this time as an opportunity to get to know yourself even better. What do you really feel/need/want? Do that! See what happens…

  • Remember, not everyone can be in relationship with you, the way you would like. Meet people where you’re at, and let them manage themselves

  • Remember, as with everything, all things pass. The good, the bad. All of it.

Here’s to making great memories with those you love.

Leisha McGrathchristmas burnout, burnout, delegate christmas, self care at christmas, health and wellbeing, communication, relationships