Sometimes I think that the holiday stress is now in my DNA.  What about you?  After years of having stressful holiday moments, is it possible that I anticipate the stress without checking into the reality of my holiday situation?  Probably! Just the thoughts of all those gifts I think I should buy and all of those things on my “to do” list I think I should do are what really stresses me out.

Think about what stresses you out.  Actually spend some time writing down where your stress comes from (out-of-town guests, cooking, cleaning, finances, kids, etc.)  As is often the case, our stress swims around in our heads creating a mild (or not so mild) type of anxiety.  This frequently triggers a chain reaction of stress = anxiety = snapping = arguing = fighting.  You know the routine.

My suggestion is to become super mindful about this process.  Talking to a calm friend or counselor can help you to identify stressors, triggers and patterns in behavior and thought – all good information. Change follows awareness and it starts with our thoughts.  

If you would like some help in breaking old patterns of thoughts and behavior, I would love to hear from you. This is a great process to acknowledge with your children.  It’s a gift that never stops giving.

Wishing you peaceful moments during this holiday season!

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Michelle Kelley Licensed Counselor, Owner, Girls Stand Strong

Licensed counselor and founder of Girls Stand Strong Michelle Kelley, LCSW, helps girls and women of all ages develop and improve their self-image, self-esteem, relationship and communication skills, emotional understanding, coping skills, the ability to handle difficult situations and people, and resiliency to create a brighter, better and more successful tomorrow. For more information about Michelle’s coaching and counseling services, call (703) 505-2413 or email michelle@girlsstandstrong.com.