Oh yes, the holidays can be stressful! Some of this stress is external; from family or work. But some of our stress is self-created. Our own thoughts and actions can take some of the joy out of our holiday season. Good news: we are in control of this self-created stress. One type of self-created stress comes from procrastination. Let’s take a look at three types of procrastination, how each affects our holidays, and how to help combat it so we can maximize enjoyment of this special time of year.
Why Do I procrastinate?
We want everything to be perfect! If it can be perfect why do it at all? Our expectations of ourselves are high. Let’s say we have to buy gifts for the holidays. You can spend days searching for the perfect item without finding this magical gift. To challenge this type of procrastination try to make a little progress. Can’t find the perfect gift for a loved one? How about a stocking stuffer? This may help remove the pressure and get the momentum shifted to your favor.
We are not sure what decision to make, so we avoid making any decision at all. Our desire to make sure the holidays are just as we picture can be anti-productive. Building the perfect holiday image is on many of our minds, but if we start to overgeneralize we can get stuck. Let’s say there is a festive party to plan. What if you make the wrong decision? Order the wrong appetizers from the caterer? Everyone will hate the party! This sort of catastrophizing can paralyze our ability to make even a simple decision. If this happens try breaking a big task into smaller tasks and give yourself credit for past successes. Remind yourself that you can do it!
We have so much to do! It will all work out… A positive attitude can be a great thing! Yes it will all work out, but it will take some effort. Relaxing into a false state of denial is a type of procrastination. And the holiday deadline will arrive whether or not we are ready. Will the gifts wrap themselves? Try making a list for a reality check. Then try delegating what you can. And focus on the progress you can make in the moment. This can keep us from becoming overwhelmed. Each thing marked off the list is a victory and one step closer to relaxing with your loved ones.
Life puts enough pressure on us. In being kind to yourself and helping to relieve the self-created stresses we have more room to receive the gifts of the season.
Happy Holidays.
Kelly Burris is a Marriage and Family Therapist and Wellness Coach in San Clemente California. For further information visit calicounseling.com. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Kelly she can be reached via email at calicounseling@gmail.com
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