By Beth McLean, MPH

The holiday season can be one of the most magical times of the year, as well as one of the most stressful. Many of us are so focused on serving and giving to others that we may neglect the self-care needed to achieve our goals. All too often I find myself encouraging those around me to “take care of themselves” or to “slow down and smell the roses” when I rarely take such considerations for myself. Why does offering advice to others seem easier than self-reflection and self-care? How can we find a more balanced way to navigate the holiday season?

1. Dedicate time for self-reflection: As one year prepares to end and another to begin, take time to reflect on this year’s highlights as well as persisting challenges. What factors were/are in your control versus out of your control? Are there opportunities to appreciate the impact others have had this year or to allow others to better assist going forward? Are the expectations you set for yourself or others reasonable/achievable?

2. Communicate: Though it can be easy to assume others automatically know our individual perspectives and needs, frustration and disappointment can take root if we do not consider what our expectations are and how we communicate them to others. Is our support network sufficient, or might having outside support and perspective be advantageous?

3. Be intentional with time management: What are your top priorities today/this week/this month? Block off time on your calendar (or set phone alerts) to focus just on that priority/challenge for a certain amount of time with little or no distractions. How can you tackle that priority/challenge in a new or different way that may offer better results than you have been experiencing? Who might be able to assist you in creating a new plan of action?

4. Establish and maintain boundaries: Availability of time and resources differs greatly among those in our lives. A great way to reduce stress and maintain positive relationships with others is to proactively establish and clearly communicate what we have to offer to those we love and care for and what boundaries may need to be established to ensure balance is maintained.