At this stressful time of the year, do you find yourself more edgy and short-fused around the children? No wonder. There is so much we are trying to accomplish to create special holiday memories. At the same time, we are all being bombarded by media about what to buy and where and when to buy it in order to get the best price and make our loved ones happy. Our children are also surrounded by friends telling them what they wish to receive this holiday and this can lead to pushing for gifts that we, as their parents, may find expensive and/or inappropriate given their age or our values. How do we recapture the holiday joy and focus on what really matters to us as parents? Self-care is a valuable tool to try even though you may feel like you have no time for it. Trust me, the investment you make will pay off in greater clarity about your priorities and how to tackle each day leading up to the holidays. What's calming for you when you are stressed out? A walk, a warm bath, a conversation with a dear friend, going to a movie, having dinner out with your sweetheart? I encourage you to take time for YOU this busy holiday season by giving yourself the gift of self-care. Parents need to replenish their emotional and physical reserves so they can be at their best for the children. In fact, taking care of yourself and calming down is the best gift you can give your family this year.
