By Michael G. Rayel, MD


Kids love Christmas! Majority of us still celebrate the fun.

But why is it that some people are stressed even by the thought of it? How come others feel depressed rather than ecstatic? Is there anything about Christmas we have to dread?

I respect people’s view on this and sympathize with those who feel different about Christmas, who feel rushed and exhausted. What are some emotionally intelligent ways to deal with holiday-induced emotional turbulence?

Control your emotion and your expenses

Christmas elicits euphoria to many people especially to kids. During this time, everyone tries to show the best front. But uncontrolled elation can be overwhelming and may not serve your best interest. Sometimes, excitement clouds our senses and weakens our judgment — leading to buying sprees and unmanageable spending.

Christmas doesn’t have to create a hole in our pockets and should not be painful for the family budget. If you can manage your emotions, there’s a huge chance that you can also control your expenses.

Keep it simple

How many menu or desserts do you feel you should prepare? How many toys and gifts are you wrapping? How many friends and relatives do you have to call or send cards to? How many parties are you planning to throw?

For your own peace of mind, keep it simple. Pay someone to prepare your cakes and desserts. Let the store wrap your gifts for a minimal fee. If you can afford not to throw a party, why have one? If you can mail a check to your favorite nephew, why buy a toy the child may not even like?

Manage your tongue

Christmas is a time to celebrate opportunities, time to focus on positive thoughts and on blessings, time to appreciate the challenges you’ve faced. It’s not the time to sow intrigue or yell at your children or spouse. It’s not the time to blurt profanities even if provoked.

Manage your tongue. With restraint, make your family members happy. Avoid spewing hurtful language. Speak positively. When in doubt, always err on the side of being pleasant and kind.

Reconnect

This Christmas season, focus on sharing, togetherness, reuniting with loved ones even with those from afar. Talk about family, weather, issues of the day. Laugh with them. Throw some hugs. Avoid arguments. Just focus on pleasant stuffs.

Prioritize your family but also consider attending some social gatherings and work-related celebrations. Through phone or internet, greet your long lost classmates and surprise them with your wit and natural flair.

Accept the season for what it is

Expect Christmas to be no different from previous ones. For others who feel overwhelmed and stressed by the whole spectacle, be patient and try to cope. Holidays will be over soon. The busyness, the traffic, the gift-giving, and the parties will remain regardless of how we feel.

But for most people who love the celebration and what it represents, enjoy it while it lasts. Savor its essence. Share the joy and the fun. Love every minute of it. Care for everyone. Be thankful.

Happy holidays!


About the Author:

Dr. Michael G. Rayel — author, game inventor, and psychiatrist — has created the Oikos Game Series to promote emotional health and A 31-Day Series to help kids and teens. Since 2005, he has published Oikos’ Insights! www.oikosinsights.com as an online resource for personal development. Visit www.oikosglobal.com for more info.