The holidays are here. It’s the season for joy, giving thanks, and celebrating a new year, but maybe, if you’re like me and you’ve gone through a difficult time, it can be hard to get into the holiday spirit.
I want to share with you a little story about me and give you some ideas to bring back that holiday spirit.
A couple of years ago before my daughter had turned one, I was living in Kentucky. I flew back home to El Paso with my daughter to celebrate my brother’s baby shower in December. During my visit, I got a call from my spouse at the time saying I should stay in El Paso. In short, I was getting a divorce. I had to leave all my stuff and gifts for my daughter back in Kentucky. I felt like I had nothing to offer, and watching all the happy families around town made me even sadder.
The holidays became the worst time of the year for me. I found it hard to get back into the holiday spirit. Nevertheless, I managed to get through it with the love and support from my family and friends. Like the saying goes, “When one door closes another one opens.”
So how can we bring back the holiday spirit? Below are five things that have helped me.
1. Practice Gratitude
In all honesty, my best tip is to grab a glass of wine and jot down a list of things to be thankful for.
2. Create New Traditions
I made a new Christmas tradition for us to give back every year. Last year we set up a free yard sale. In brief, I made a post online to share with the public, and our front yard was full of toys, clothes, and shoes to give for free. Furthermore, I met so many people and I felt so blessed to give back to my community. Their smiles made me smile and I’ll always be thankful for that.
Holiday traditions are special and are a great way to bring back that holiday cheer. Don’t have a tradition? It’s always fun to start a new one. Here are a few ideas.
- Make a family recipe.
- Go to the El Paso Winter Fest.
- Get your own Elf on the Shelf.
- Have a Christmas movie night.
- Create a holiday bucket list.
3. Find Joy
Keep smiling. You are doing your best. With this in mind, discover what makes you happy and focus on that.
Practice self-care. Soak in a bath with a bottle of wine and place out your favorite candles. Spoil yourself or grab a friend to get a new mani and pedi with. Whatever makes you happy do it!
If you have a hectic schedule, make some time for family night. Are your kids bored during the holiday break? Find some holiday arts and crafts to do together. On a budget? Download Pinterest and head out to your nearest dollar tree to grab some craft supplies.
Spark some creativity and find a new hobby!
Have you always wanted to learn how to play a guitar or sing? Take some guitar and voice lessons. Sign up for some cooking classes to step up your cooking skills this season.
In either event, you can make some good impressions around the dinner table and happily entertain your guest.
4. Remember You Aren’t Alone
Indeed, the holidays can be a reminder of hard times. However, what always helps me the most during the holidays is a gentle reminder that we are not alone. Be thankful for the people you’ve met along the way even if they aren’t in your life anymore. At the same time, cherish those memories and create new ones. Notably, you have a community here in El Paso that is ready to welcome you with open arms. Spark up a conversation and get out of your comfort zone.
Above all, I know you’re doing your best so don’t give up. Undoubtedly, you have so much to live for. If you’re still having a hard time, reach out to someone. Our children want to see us be happy just as much as we want to make them happy. We have the power to bring back that joy into our lives.
You might have to make the effort to connect with others. Create a gift exchange at work to bring your coworkers together. Everyone loves a good potluck during lunch break. Lastly, if you’re feeling a bit lonely, reconnect with an old friend.
5. Give Back
Volunteering or donating is a good way to spread a little joy by helping others. And it’s sure to lift your spirits as well. The following organizations are open to donations and volunteers.
1014 S. Virginia ST El Paso, Texas 79901
1020 N. Campbell Street El Paso,Texas 79902
2100 North Stevens Street, El Paso, Texas 79930
Check out more holiday season tips from our site at the links below.
Places to Order Thanksgiving Dinner in the El Paso area
8 Tangible Ways To Help Your Grieving Friend During the Holiday Season
