During the holidays, we’re often focused on the way things should be. But we also know that life can be unpredictable. That means we have a responsibility to create as much joy and peace for ourselves as we can.
There are many ways to welcome joy and peace during the holidays, even during difficult times. In this post, we’re sharing some tips and ideas to help you and your spouse embrace and enjoy the season, whatever it brings.
When It Comes to Making Holiday Plans, Stay Open-Minded
One of the most significant sources of holiday stress is the question of who you’re going to visit throughout the season. How many gatherings will you travel to? How far will you travel? How many obligations do you feel you have to meet?
Consider how you and your spouse have done things in the past. Do you try to make it to every possible gathering, at the expense of your well-being? Do you and your spouse tend to disagree over where to go and which family members to visit?
The first step you’ll both need to take is to stay open-minded about holiday plans this year. If you’re truly focused on enjoying more peace and joy this season, this step is essential. Our article, We Can’t Agree On Who To Visit For The Holidays. What Do We Do?, will give you some actionable steps you can take to thaw the stalemate.
Embrace This Season for What It Is – Even If It’s a Difficult One
Our culture associates the holidays with happiness – that’s why you’re seeking more joy and peace this year. But depending on your current life circumstances, the holidays can sometimes feel anything but joyful. It’s not easy to reconcile expectations with reality, but it’s important to do so.
We’ve created a post to help you look at this season differently, especially if you’re going through a challenging time in your life or marriage: 7 Ways to Prepare for a Not-So-Typical Holiday Season Together. We hope this resource will help you in the midst of whatever you’re facing this year – and help you find a little extra joy and peace in the process.
Reduce Stress However You Can
Holiday stress will deplete your joy. If you’re ready for a happier holiday season, you and your spouse must commit to reducing it. Our article, 7 Ways to Dial Back Holiday Stress, will get you started with some stress-reducing ideas you can put to use immediately.
It’s difficult to enjoy the holidays in peace when you’re stressed over different elements of the season. Sit down with your spouse to talk through your feelings. Then, work as a team to find ways to reduce stress for both of you.
Let the Holidays Bring Fresh Perspective to Your Marriage
This winter, consider how you might be able to use the holidays to reflect and reset within your marriage. Rather than stretching yourselves too thin, why not create more quality time with one another?
The holidays are a perfect season to make new memories together and commit to a fresh start in the coming new year. Our article, How Holidays Can Bring Fresh Perspective to Your Marriage, features some ideas for creating a season of renewal with your spouse.
How will you bring more joy, peace, and love to yourselves and one another as we head into this year’s holidays? Share your ideas and insights with us in the comments.
