During the holiday season, many will be gathering with family and friends to share in good cheer. Occasionally, "cheer" can turn to "chore," and stressed-out tempers can heat up and singe others in the process. Here are a few tips to help you keep a cool head when it starts getting hot:
? Know your triggers. Is it a certain person who gets your blood boiling? Or is it a specific situation that can melt your otherwise cool resolve to be pleasant and cheerful? Recall times when you have overcome these triggers in the past and apply them.
? It's not all about you . yet it's up to you. Everyone deals with stress and social situations differently. Don't take things too personally. You can control only one person's reaction to stress - yours. Resolve to be the epitome of cool and calm.
? Mind environmental influences. A festive background should stay in the background. Maintain a calmer ambiance with the warm glow of candles, subtle sounds of instrumental tunes, and inviting aromas that remind guests of happy times.
? Rather than jumping into the middle of a heated discussion, take a moment or few to listen and assess what is going on. If you must share your opinion, do so with gentle consideration for others.
? Prepare with care. Don't let the holidays or your companions wear you out or erode your resolve. Late hours, overindulgence in treats, and trying to accomplish too much in too little time all undermine your determination to live a healthy lifestyle. Nobody can or should do it all.
Consider joining a local group for additional support.
? Remain in control. When you swallow pride, comments, or emotions, don't accompany them with foods that may disrupt your healthy eating meal plan and weight management success. Instead, keep your thoughts positive and coach yourself with affirmations.
? Serenity now. Just as proper planning and preparation can help you accomplish healthy lifestyle goals, it also helps to navigate smoothly through the challenges of the holidays. Incorporate small, peaceful rituals such as breathing deeply or being mindful to enter each situation with a smile.
? Size matters. It's all too easy to dramatize and think that something is a big deal when it isn't. Avoid the urge to think that every conflict is the end of the world.
? Back off. When all else fails, remove yourself gracefully from the situation and allow it to resolve or dissolve on its own.
This would be a good time to go for a walk and keep your physical activity up.
? Mission accomplished. If you're motivated by rewards, promise to "treat" yourself to a non-food gift.
- Courtesy of Take Of Pounds Sensibly (TOPS)
