The holidays are upon us, and for most of us, this is a season that is filled with love and laughter, but also a great deal of stress and anxiety. It is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, where we have a tendency to spread ourselves thin with regard to our money, time, and energy. However, this time of year is one where it is even more important than usual to practice mindfulness in order to be the best version of yourself, for yourself and for those friends and loved ones around you. Here are a few ways you can practice mindfulness this holiday season and beyond, cultivating a clear head and peace of mind now and in the coming year as well.
Be Present
This is the first and most basic tenets of mindfulness – being present in the here and now. At the root of it, this is exactly what mindfulness is. Take time to slow down and not get ahead of yourself in your head. Work to let go of thoughts about “what needs to be done next” or “how many more items on your to-do list that haven’t been checked off”. Be in the present moment, with whomever you happen to be sharing it with at the time, and allow that to be enough. What will be, will be, and you’ll be better prepared to handle it if you are able to go into it with a clear head instead of one that is clouded with worry.
Work on one thing at a time
In our culture especially, we have a tendency to glorify being busy. We think that multi-tasking is just a way of life, and if you’re not juggling at least three things at any given point in time, you’re clearly not working hard enough.
Stop. It’s a lie!
Try instead to “single-task” – that is, work on one thing at a time, and allow it to have your full attention. You’ll find that by doing this, you’re more productive and better able to get things done, and you’ll likely feel less stress in the meantime.
Feel gratitude
Instead of focusing on the things that you want or need that you don’t currently have, take a little time out to be purposefully grateful for what you do have. In the holiday season especially, it is easy for us to get caught up in wanting MORE – more time, more energy, more money, more stuff… But what if we took a moment or two to simply be thankful for what we already have? Look for opportunities to feel grateful on purpose throughout your day and watch how much of an impact it has on your overall mood and outlook.
These are just a few quick tips to help you remain present and mindful as you navigate your way through this holiday season. Wishing you all the best through the holidays and into the new year from your friends in Alumni Career Management.
Have a wonderful day!