The holiday season can be hectic for so many reasons. Folks are slowing down for the final two months of the year. Others are out on vacation, leaving teams to pick up extra slack. And then there’s the idea of having to reunite with family, and for many, that means seeing relatives they usually wouldn’t. With all the things entrepreneurs and high-achieving professionals have to tackle daily, the extra mental load of being “on” can take a toll on their energy.
It’s easy to fall into a hole of mild despair and annoyance from having to code-switch and juggle so many personalities. From people bringing up topics of discussion that they probably shouldn’t, to others being rude, all that energy during a time when entrepreneurs and high-achieving professionals alike want to relax is a game of calculus they don’t want to enter.
This is why protecting your space is vital for both your sanity and your business. For this reason, we’ve compiled a list of holiday tips to help you protect your peace and recover like the true star that you are.
Regulate your nervous system before you gather with your family
Even at its best, mingling with so many people can be draining. You’re having questions thrown at you left and right, the kids are running amok, and the food might not sit well with you. So, treat spending time with your family much the same way you would a major presentation. Dedicate some time to anchoring yourself before you arrive at the party. Things like breathwork, cold exposure, and exercise can help prime the body.
Recite a small and simple mantra that helps you focus on the emotions you want to tap into while you are with them. Something as small as “stay calm” or “I can do this” can go a long way to helping you tap into soothing energy. In the days leading up to the celebration, focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that are high in fiber and protein. This will help stabilize your internal systems against the onslaught of rich holiday meals.
Protect your bandwidth by streamlining what needs mental real estate and what doesn’t
Not every conversation that happens during the holidays needs or deserves your attention (not in a rude way). It’s essential to understand what topics you are willing to engage in, the ones you will bear witness to, and the ones you will walk away from. Prior to the gathering, take some time to figure out what your “micro breaks” will look like.
Will you be taking a moment to step outside and do a quick breathing exercise? Or will excusing yourself to get something to munch on or refill your beverage cup do it? Our emotions can get the best of us if we aren’t ready with ways to self-regulate (or co-regulate if you have a partner). Regulating in real time can be a total game-changer for your body, helping soothe your system before you become overstimulated.
Recover like an athlete with a post-gathering routine
Recovery is a deeply personal experience and moment, so it’s important to do things that feed you and feel aligned. Post-holiday and gathering decompression looks different for everyone. You can engage in activities that renew your sense of internal safety and peace of mind. Things like going for a walk, journaling, painting, or light yoga could go a long way toward helping you recenter yourself. But if you’re not a runner, don’t suddenly decide to run 10 miles to get your mind off of things. Do what fits.
It’s also essential to find ways to reconnect with yourself and reflect on what energized you versus what didn’t. Were you happy about making a joke that made the room laugh? Did seeing the younger generations communing with each other remind you of how it was for you growing up? Did someone cook a dish you want the recipe for? Focus on the things that filled your heart, soul, and spirit. Also, ask yourself, what did this season teach you about boundaries and growth?
Remember, you can witness family dynamics without absorbing them or bringing them home with you. High performance doesn’t come from pushing yourself harder during a stressful time; it comes from doing what you must to protect your mind, body, and energy. The business can’t run without you.
