Dr. Cameron John with Argosy University offers some tips to help organize your time and conquer the challenges of family holidays.
THINK “NOEL” FOR LOW STRESS FAMILY HOLIDAYS
N: NO, Learn to Say No. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can’t participate in every project or activity. If it’s not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
O: OPEN, Establish your own traditions. As couples marry and start families there is a unique opportunity to integrate traditions that were found in their individual homes. As you explore these options you may find some hidden surprises that can refresh your spirit of the season. You may also find that new ones spring up. (Lauren Carlson SLC new tradition that she submitted to a magazine)
E: ESCAPE, Take a Breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take a walk at night and stargaze. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm. Plan quiet time or at least downtime from activities. Take a few moments to read a book, take a bubble bath, or sit down and listen to your favorite songs. (introverts and extroverts)
L: LOVE, Love others, love the holidays, put the “meaning” back into the holidays. Each of us celebrate the holidays for a reason. Many celebrate because of religious meaning, others for the opportunity to connect with family again. Regardless of why, the important thing is to remember why you are doing this in the first place. Not only will this help you survive the holidays, you will be passing on the importance to your children through your own actions.
THINKING ABOUT THE NEW YEAR
Another great idea is to start the New Year with a fresh outlook by finishing your college degree at Argosy University. Argosy University specializes in behavioral sciences and psychology and offers some great advantages
– A variety of programs, certificates and degrees
– Flexible, convenient learning formats (evenings, weekends, online coursework
– Several student support services (academic, career and personal)
– Training opportunities (hospitals, social service agencies, schools, etc)
– Convenient location
For more information, check out the Argosy University website at www.argosy.edu or visit their campus at 121 Election Rd., Draper, Utah
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