When Christmas Isn't Sparking JOY

This time of year can bring up big emotions for people. 

Not only do we have the overwhelming rush to the end of year finish line, but we also have so much added stress with “Christmas is coming”. 

I want you to know that if you are not joyously cruising into Christmas and the end of year, it’s OK.
You are not alone.  

You're not a bad person or the “Christmas Grinch”.  ​

​You’re probably just extremely overwhelmed, burnt out, beyond tired and perhaps at capacity with everyone and everything!

Christmas and the new year often brings up anxiety!  

I know this feeling. I spent a few years of my life dreading Christmas day and  the stress that comes from juggling “family relationships" and having to “act normal” when I felt way less than normal.  

It’s plain hard to be joyful when your mind feels scrambled and you've got zero energy left in the tank.  
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Not to mention that pressure of staring down the road to 2024 … thinking what am I doing with my life? Why am I still so far away from where I should be? And how the hell am I going grin and bear it and avoid these questions from people at all those Christmas parties?! 
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If you resonate with any of this, here is an approach for you

​If you resonate with any of this, here is an approach for you:

Honour your feelings. 
 
It’s OK to be feeling this way, there are many other who feel the same right now too but probably aren't talking about it.
There’s no doubt you’ve been juggling a lot this year and likely just need time and space to process your thoughts, feelings and emotions.  

It’s ok to say No. 
 
I remember one year when my family asked me to host Christmas Day lunch and I was struggling with my mental health. My anxiety immediately triggered at the thought of seeing everyone in my home roll up with Esky’s full of alcohol and drinking all day.
I knew that my head and nervous system could not handle any alcohol fueled arguments or stress.  
 
So, with the help of my mentor I crafted some words to create a boundary that honoured my feelings. I wrote to each family member and told them I would host, but if it was at my house, it would be an alcohol-free day. They agreed, respected my wishes and came along. They ate the food, opened presents, left early and went on to be merry somewhere else!
By all accounts for me it was a GREAT DAY. Zero anxiety, and lots of laughs. 

Focus on self-care.    

Perhaps this is what your holiday break is about, a time for rest and recharge rather than all the Christmas ‘tis. Less giving energy out, more recouping energy in. Do things that bring you comfort and relaxation.

You don’t have to have it all figured out by December 31st.  

In actual fact December 31 is just another day in the calendar. Take a breath and release the pressure. Everything will work itself out in time. Go slow and be kind to yourself.  Ande let this be your reminder to take a breather. You can and you will get to that end of year finish line. 

 
And please take care out there, if you're stressed and emotions are high remember that there are many others that are too. 

All the best,
​JB.

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​About the Author: 

Janel Briggs is an Author, Mindset Coach, Practitioner of NLP and Timeline Therapy on a mission to support women across the world in overcoming their  anxiety - personal insecurities and professional fears - to build unwavering confidence and self-belief. Mindset Coaching aims to help you fearlessly elevate your life and career, and more importantly the relationship you have with yourself! Connect with Janel on social media via Linkedin or Instagram.

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