Festive season Survival Guide: 5 Dos and Dont's for a Joyful Celebration

Kakamega 

Wednesday, 25 December, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

The festive season is here—a time of twinkling lights, bustling malls, family gatherings, and endless parties. 

It’s a period many look forward to all year, but it’s also easy to get caught up in the chaos and lose sight of what makes it truly special. 

Whether you're planning a quiet holiday at home or an action-packed season, following a few key dos and don’ts can help you navigate the holidays with grace, cheer, and mindfulness.

DO: Plan Ahead

The holiday rush is inevitable, but planning can make a world of difference. Start by creating a checklist for everything from gifts and groceries to travel arrangements. Book flights and accommodations early to avoid inflated prices and last-minute stress. 

If hosting, finalize your guest list and menu ahead of time. Organized preparations not only save money but also free up more time to enjoy the season's festivities.

DON’T: Overspend It’s easy to get swept up in the gift-giving spirit and go overboard on spending. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Remember, meaningful gestures often hold more value than expensive presents. 

Homemade gifts or experiences like a shared dinner or an outing can be just as impactful as something store-bought. Overspending might lead to a financial hangover come January, overshadowing the joy you felt during the holidays.

DO: Focus on Togetherness

The holiday season is a golden opportunity to reconnect with loved ones. Prioritize quality time over quantity. Whether it’s a family dinner, a movie night, or volunteering together, cherish these shared moments. If you can’t be physically present, virtual gatherings can bridge the gap, ensuring you still feel close despite the distance.

DON’T: Ignore Self-Care Amid the flurry of activities, self-care often takes a backseat. Late nights, heavy meals, and packed schedules can lead to burnout. Make it a point to carve out time for rest. Hydrate, stick to a balanced diet (with room for indulgence), and maintain a regular sleep schedule. A little self-care ensures you stay energized and fully enjoy the festivities.

DO: Spread Kindness

The holidays aren’t just about receiving; they’re about giving back too. Consider donating to charities, volunteering at a shelter, or even helping a neighbor in need. Small acts of kindness—like writing a heartfelt card or checking in on someone—can make a significant impact. Spreading joy during this season often comes back tenfold.

DON’T: Overcommit With countless events and obligations, the holiday calendar can quickly become overwhelming. Learn to say no. Politely decline invitations if they clash with your priorities or lead to exhaustion. It’s better to fully enjoy a few meaningful activities than to stretch yourself thin trying to attend everything.

DO: Embrace the Spirit

At its heart, the festive season is about gratitude, love, and reflection. Take time to appreciate the little things—a beautifully decorated tree, a warm drink by the fire, or laughter echoing through your home. Create traditions or revisit old ones that bring you joy and strengthen your sense of belonging.

DON’T: Let Perfectionism Take Over No holiday is flawless, and striving for perfection can dampen the joy. If the turkey is overcooked or the décor doesn’t look Instagram-worthy, let it go. Focus on the memories being made rather than the minor imperfections. After all, the holidays are meant to be celebrated, not scrutinized.

Bottomline 

The festive season is what you make of it. By focusing on these dos and avoiding the don’ts, you can create a meaningful, joyful holiday experience. 

So take a deep breath, embrace the spirit of the season, and remember: it’s not about how much you do but how much love and care you put into it. 

Happy holidays from the Nairobi Review.