Let’s be honest, Thanksgiving can easily become a stressful day. From preparing the meal, managing your kids, and hosting guests, there is no shortage of things that can go wrong. To avoid this, it is important for us to be proactive to gain control over our day. To help with this, I developed four tips you can utilize to have a more manageable, stress free holiday. I hope these tips can help you as much as they help me when it comes to the holidays. Here are my helpful tips:
1. Enlist Help if Available
This is a PSA to all my mamas: We don’t always have to be superwoman! I know that it has been ingrained in many of us that we have to endure the struggle to realize the success. BUT…I am here to tell you that is not true. There is no reason why we have to run ourselves ragged, where by the time dinner is served we aren’t hungry, are exhausted, and just want to lay down. To avoid this, I highly recommend asking others for help. Despite what you may be thinking, asking for help does not make you “weak”, it makes you strong and smart. To help with the day you can ask a family member or friend to watch the kids while you cook, or for them to pitch in too! You can also ask for help with any last minute shopping that may need to be done, or to help get the table together for guests. Lastly, its okay to ask guests to bring a dish or too, or dare I say, cater in a few side dishes to lighten your load too1?. Girl, take heed to my advice, because you deserve to relax and enjoy the holiday too!
2. Get Organized
A high school teach of mine always said to our class “if you fail to plan you plan to fail”. Since, then, I have learned just how true that statement is, and how it even applies to Thanksgiving. A holiday such as this requires thoughtful planning in advance. Beyond planning the menu, it’s important to prepare early by creating a plan for the day, and a schedule of events. This helps to set clear expectations and roles for everyone to work together to have a great day. Another important part to plan around is any nap and feeding times for your little one(s). This is definitely key to ensure there aren’t any unexpected interruptions as you move throughout the day
3. Consider Your Child’s Temperment
Whether you are hosting or attending someone else’s home, there is always a chance your kid(s) may not do well with all the commotion. In the planning phase for the day, you should consider your child’s temperament and how they react to big gatherings. For example, introverts may become overwhelmed and need a quiet place to recharge; Extroverts may thrive, but could a breakdown when it is time to go. You may also have a child you needs activities to keep them focused. Packing a bag of some of their activities can give them something positive to focus on. Regardless of your child’s temperament, always consider how they may react at the dinner, and try to be prepare in advance for various situations.
4. Ditch Perfectionism
It’s nice to try to achieve that perfect Instagram worthy dinner, but it’s also okay if it isn’t. The reality is, like most things in life, we can try to plan to the tee and yet something still doesn’t go right. The key here is to flexible. Yes sis, this means letting go of perfectionism. Don’t stress yourself our by trying to create the perfect dinner or day. Set realistic expectations and be open to pivoting when necessary. Remember, the day is about coming together with those we love, and to give thanks.
I want to hear from you!
What tips do you think are most helpful to you? Is there anything that you do that helps you survive the holiday?
