Holiday Season: How to Stay Happy If It Isn’t So Joyful

Holiday expectations are filled with joy and wonder, but the reality is often disappointing. When dealing with financial, health, or societal concerns, the holidays become stressful and emotionally draining. Not everyone has close family and friends to celebrate with, so loneliness adds to the strain. Luckily, it’s easy to stay happy during the holidays by altering a few habits and trying new things.

To avoid the seasonal blues, consider adding fun activities to your routine. Several holiday options are available, including elegant affairs, outdoor fun, and low-key activities. You shouldn’t have trouble finding something that suits your taste and abilities. The following sections offer tips on beating those holiday blues.

Group of elderly people staying happy during holiday season in Fairview Adult Day Care Center.

Stay Happy During Holidays No Matter What

Feelings of isolation, loss, and fear may increase during the holidays, especially when knowing others are celebrating around you. If uncorrected, mental health deteriorates, and physical health is often ignored. To combat seasonal sadness, try altering some routines and add a few fun activities to the mix. Before long, you’ll feel better and regain the holiday excitement of your youth.

Practice happy people’s habits

Several habits are common among the happiest members of society. Though vital for overall mood-boosting, they are also useful during the holidays to keep you smiling.

One crucial habit of happy people is strong social connections. Reach out to friends, family and colleagues and get together. Don’t sit around, overthinking or feeling abandoned.

You can also make your own celebrations. Though spending time with loved ones is part of the season, taking time for yourself is also essential. Set aside time to meditate, take a bubble bath, and get plenty of sleep every night to stay happy during holidays. Doing so helps calm your mind and relax your body so you’re ready for those busy gatherings.

Another happy people’s habit is maintaining realistic expectations. Holidays don’t always go as planned, creating disappointment. Don’t dwell on those missed activities or gatherings. Instead, focus on the more enjoyable parts of the season.

Be grateful for what and who you have in your life. If finances are an issue, create a budget and stick to it. Start buying gifts early and a bit at a time to prevent overspending. Remember, it’s the thought that counts and lovely gifts don’t have to cost a fortune.

Stay active for a happy holiday season. Physical activity keeps your body healthy and releases endorphins to boost your mood. The more you’re moving, the better you’ll feel. Of course, you also shouldn’t overdo it, so stay within your limits and abilities.

Bring joy to your life

During the holidays, we often focus on getting things done. Shopping for food and gifts, cooking meals, baking treats, and wrapping presents are the main goals. Even those living alone often dwell on less pleasant things, including the loss of loved ones, physical health, or financial burdens.

To prevent stress, anxiety, and other mental issues from bringing you down, add some joy to your life. Attending fun activities is one method to stay happy during the holidays. Concerts, parades, dinners, and other celebrations are all entertaining options.

Surrounding yourself with happy people is also crucial for a joyful holiday. Spend time with family and friends or attend events you’ll enjoy and meet some new people. Building those social connections may even continue past the holiday season and into the new year.

Resources:

https://www.ncoa.org/article/taking-care-of-your-health-through-the-holiday-season
https://nationalhealthcouncil.org/blog/self-care-during-the-holidays/
https://www.ucihealth.org/blog/2014/11/how-to-keep-the-happy-in-the-holidays
https://www.jcmh.org/how-to-keep-the-happy-in-happy-holidays/

This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.