5 Tips to Avoid the Holiday Blues

This article was updated on 12.3.20

The holiday season traditionally brings joy and great expectations about gatherings, delicious meals, and -of course- the gifts. But, during the festivities, many people also experience emotional difficulties derived from financial constraints, family issues, and in many cases the perception of not reaching personal goals. In fact, a survey conducted by OnePoll found last year that about 88% of Americans feel that the holiday season is the most stressful time of the year.

As if that was not enough, in 2020 we are all enduring a different, but a very impactful reality with the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the future seems promising, now with the vaccine hopefully becoming available soon, there’s still much to do until we can return to a “normal” life. And while that happens, we wanted to share 5 tips to avoid the holiday blues and make the most out of this New Year!

1. Be Realistic

After being used to all of that cheer and laughter, I wouldn’t be surprised if you didn’t miss it. But that doesn’t mean you have to be down for the count because of it. Before the holiday season even starts, be realistic about it. Try not to overdo it on the sweets or alcohol; this way, when you fall back into your regular routine, you haven’t strayed too far away from it.

2. Begin a new routine

Trying to get back into a routine and it’s just not working? Switch it up and try something new! Go take a long walk, considering the precautions of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Once available, take that spinning class you’ve always wanted to do or start volunteering at a local animal shelter as soon as possible. Making small changes to your daily life will give you something to look forward to.

3. Stay connected

Even though your family and friends have to maintain social distance, it doesn’t mean you should forget about them. Stay connected with them and regularly check-in. Whether or not you usually call home on a daily basis, this is especially important after the holidays. Being around family and friends -even if is via Zoom, is always something most look forward to because they bring up the “good old days” and you all reminisce. There is no reason why you can’t have this much fun throughout the rest of the year.

4. Make Plans

You may realize once all of the glitter has settled that you look forward to the holidays for the ENTIRE year and now…. there isn’t much besides a lot of snow to be shoveled. Well, make plans so that you can start counting down again, and with a healthier 2021! Go on that trip that you’ve always talked about or plan a girl’s night complete with the latest chick flick. Making a plan will give you something to put on your calendar and something to think about when those holiday blues start to creep up on you.

5. Set Goals

Take a look at your calendar for the New Year and set goals for yourself, big or small. Whether it is to lose 10 pounds or change careers, making a goal will give you something to work towards. When you are sitting at home wishing you had a pile of presents in front of you, you can work towards meeting your goal. The best part about long- or short-term goals? You can always set more for yourself once you’ve completed them.