Getting through the Festive Season

As Christmas rolls around, it can be either a season of cheer or a season to fear. Many people look forward to spending time with loved ones and friends and sharing celebrations. For others this can be a time of stress, unhappiness and loneliness. Here are some tips for getting through the festive season:

• Take care of yourself: Treat yourself with kindness and caring.

• Set realistic expectations: Be realistic about how much time and money you'll spend.

• Plan ahead: Create an action plan to help relieve stress.

• Limit alcohol: Alcohol can increase stress and anxiety.

• Practice gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you're grateful for each day.

• Connect with community: Volunteer, attend a Christmas event, or strike up a conversation with a neighbour.

• Cope with family conflict: Avoid topics that family members usually argue about, and keep family gatherings small.

• Share feelings: If you're going through a difficult time, accept your feelings and open up to others.

• Be open to new traditions: Allow new traditions to unfold instead of holding on to what you think the holiday should be.

• Live in the present: Look to the future with optimism and don't compare today to the past.

Remember what matters most. Enjoy the holidays in whatever way is best for you and whatever way will cause the least amount of stress and anxiety.

From the Team at Evolution Financial, we wish you and your families a happy and safe Festive Season and a prosperous 2025.