It’s the most wonderful time of the year. The holiday spirit is everywhere.
Christmas music is playing in all the stores, and lights are twinkling on the houses as you drive through your neighborhood.
Your favorite holiday movies are playing on every station, and you know that you should feel the excitement and the magic of the holiday surrounding you.
But, maybe something happened to you this year.
Maybe you’re suffering from a loss. Maybe you are going through a rough patch in your personal or professional life.
Maybe life feels like it’s spiraled out of your control.
Here are some things to keep in mind if your heart isn’t in it this year.
1. Don’t feel guilty if that extra Christmas cheer just isn’t there.
You don’t have to force it. When we experience hardship, it can completely change our lives and rock us to the core.
And, while the world never stops turning, our lives may feel like they have come to a complete stand-still. It’s okay if you need time this holiday to reflect and to make sense of the heartache and the changes that were thrown your way.
2. Don’t forget to utilize friends and family for support and a shoulder to lean on.
They love you. They will help you through whatever it is you’re going through. Hardship does not stop for the holiday season.
And, it can be tremendously helpful to surround yourself with people that love and care for you. No one is meant to go through their storms alone.
3. While in the midst of your struggle, never forget how strong you are.
Even on your weakest days, you are adapting, and you are fighting. And while the pain may feel overwhelming some days, it WILL get better.
Never lose sight of that.
4. While the holidays as a whole may not feel so happy, watch out for the little glimmers of cheer.
Whether it be from the kind words of a loved one, a hug when you needed it most, or a much-needed mental health day.
Don’t be afraid to grab hold of those moments and cherish them.
Cherish any moments where you’re able to experience laughter, love, and togetherness. Cherish those moments of clarity where you know exactly what is important in this life and exactly what matters.
Because, no matter what you’re going through, that right there is the true meaning behind the holiday season. And, if you can hold onto that, you’ll be okay.
