The Silent Symphony of Stress: Unveiling the Challenges Moms Face During Christmas
Every year towards the end of October or early November I catch myself saying, “I’m not going to be stressed this holiday season-I’m going to enjoy it.” And every year around this time I catch myself having a breakdown in some way, shape or form.
Why? Because as moms…
· We are the magic creators: We put immense amount of pressure on ourselves to create the perfect Christmas, from creating nightly Elf on the Shelf adventures and escapades to preparing the most decadent family feast all while making sure each square inch of our house screams CHRISTMAS CHEER. Also, we refuse to be ordinary.
· Gift-giving dilemmas: This is no small task. Moms often grapple with finding thoughtful presents that reflect the recipients’ personalities and interests. The financial strain of holiday shopping can add another layer of stress, especially if you’re trying to maintain a budget.
· Endless To-do lists: We decorate the house, organize family gatherings and send out Christmas cards and bake cookies, and much more…on top of our routine responsibilities. We prove that 24 hours is actually shorter during the holidays.
· We bear emotional labor: aside from the physical demands of the holiday season, we ensure everyone is happy and content. We manage the family dynamics, navigate potential conflicts and keep a positive atmosphere…all which are emotionally draining.
Despite these depressing bullet points, I’m willing to bet Christmas is a favorite time of year for most of you, mine too. I have to stop myself when I start growing overwhelmed with it all and instead focus on these truths:
1) People love gift cards. Don’t feel lazy- you’re actually just letting them choose any gift they want, what’s better than that?
2) You don’t have to go to every party- you don’t even have to go to one if you don’t want to. Sorry to all the hosts out there.
3) Your house, your elves, your cookies, your coordinating tartan sets are all magical. By forcing Christmas magic on all the things, you end up taking away from your own.
4) Be selfish. Plan time with friends, take a nap, go for a walk, go buy yourself something. When we’re depleted, our loved ones feel it.
5) When you feel stressed, try to remember these things: one day we will miss the Christmas chaos when our children are older, you will sleep again, there won’t be another Christmas 2023 and January is really boring.
I wish all you moms (and dads) out there a very Merry Christmas. I hope you know all that you’re doing does not go unnoticed, even if you don’t always hear words of gratitude. You know you’re bringing light and love to your family, making the memories and spreading the joy-all of which are the true meanings of Christmas. You bring the magic 365 days a year, don’t let these last 31 days seem like a pressure cooker, a brand new year is on the horizon. So, take a deep breath (and a sip of bubbles) and go ahead and add one more gift to your wishlist.
Merry Merry,
Court
Christmas 2018
Amelia Kate and Harry
