Finding Balance in the Holiday Buzz

Written by: Claudia Haller NBC-HWC

Moms, I wonder if this resonates with you: Just when you think you’re getting into your groove, “life” happens and throws a wrench in your plans. 

It takes skill to manage “mom-life”, especially when it comes to organizing everyone’s schedule. So many moving pieces. I remember, each year when school started back up I would sit there and try to figure out how I could get everyone where they needed to be - preferably on time. It was a little bit like putting together a big jigsaw puzzle. It takes time, but when it’s done, it looks great. 

In the same way, once everyone’s schedules were figured out, it felt great. 

Usually, during the first few weeks of a new school year, everyone finds their routine, including us moms. We know when to do the chores at home, when to get our work in, when to hit the gym and the errands get taken care of between pick-ups and drop-offs. Things run smoothly - most of the time. 

But then the holidays or the next summer break comes around and the carefully crafted puzzle gets thrown into the air, and the pieces are landing scattered across the floor. 

If you have experienced this, you know exactly what I mean. It can take your breath.

We are almost halfway into November and I can sense anxiety and stress lurking in the distance. You too?

While the holidays are certainly a season that brings us joy, it can also be extremely overwhelming. Tasks and responsibilities as well as family, and community gatherings are adding to our already full plates. This can get stressful very quickly and take a toll on our overall well-being. During these times we often feel overwhelmed, anxious, sad even. 

I remember feeling guilty for experiencing these emotions. It really bothered me that I couldn’t just be happy, and energetic and handle this time with ease. The things I would say to myself were just mean. Things I would never say to a loved one. Isn’t it wild what we do to ourselves? 

The Endless Cycle

Of course, I would eventually find my footing again - until the next time. Over the years these ups and downs turned into an endless cycle that kept chipping away from my self-confidence. 

It wasn’t until I was diagnosed with ADHD and took the opportunity to learn more about it and how it affected me that I realized how much structure meant to me. While ADHD is generally associated with struggling to create routines, it doesn’t mean we don’t need them. Many of us actually crave structure deeply; it provides a sense of calm amid the mental chaos. 

When my kids were younger, I was caught in a cycle of wanting structure yet feeling unable to hold onto it. There were just too many moving pieces for me to deal with. Over time, I learned that one small change could make a world of difference. I discovered the power of a simple, consistent morning routine and built from there.

One Simple Switch

Why a morning routine? The earlier in the day we find some form of foundation, structure, or accomplishment, the more positively it affects our days. It’s just that simple. 

In recent years, just waking up at the same time every day has become an anchor for me. No matter what else happens in the day ahead, that one constant helps to ground me. 
Since then, I have added journaling and prayers to it. (With a cup of coffee, of course.)

Your morning routine might look very different, or you might still be looking for one. To learn more about the benefits of a morning routine and receive tips and tricks on how to craft your own, check out one of my past blogs here.
 
When I originally created my morning routine, and I missed a day or woke up late, my whole day derailed. My husband still makes fun of me because I would be so upset for getting up late on some Sundays. And by late, I mean 6:45 am. One could say I was a little bit rigid. 
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Today, if something doesn’t go exactly to plan, I can recover much quicker. I have established a few “anchor routines” throughout my day. That way, if “life happens” I can stay adaptable, and I know that I will get back on track shortly.

One of my anchor routines is a silent moment when I take my dog, Lucy, for a walk. There is a spot where even she is used to sitting for a moment by now while I take a few deep breaths and say a prayer.  

Structure, habits, routines, etc., don’t have to mean strict schedules and detailed plans that are written in stone. For me, it’s about having something in place that gives me consistency. Something that keeps me centered when life gets chaotic, which comes in very handy during the holidays. 

Don’t get me wrong. I’m genuinely excited for the holidays, every minute spent with family and friends, and all the memories we’ll make. Yet still, looking at my calendar and to-do list can make me gasp for air. I’ve learned that my struggle mainly lies between the need for routines and the desire to spend time with others. I’ve found that it’s important for me to carve out time for myself in order to show up for others. 

It took years of beating myself up for not being “good enough” during the holidays but it is true: Self-care is not selfish AND your self-care might look very different from the next person. Pay close attention to what it is that you need. 

Remember: We can not give what we don’t have.  

My question for you:  What is it that YOU need to make time and space for during this holiday season?

Join the Club (literally…)

If any of what I have been writing about resonates with you, especially as we move through the busy holiday season, I’d encourage you to try finding your own small anchors throughout the day. It doesn’t have to be a full routine. Maybe it’s just one thing that grounds you, like a five-minute morning ritual or a few deep breaths throughout the day, reading a few pages in a book before going to bed or eating your meal away from electronics, and simply enjoying every bite you take.

I know I’m not alone in this holiday struggle, which is why I’m inviting you to join me. If a little time to vent, connect with others who get it, or brainstorm ways to lighten the load sounds good, come hang out with us. On Monday, November 11th we launched a space where you can do just that. We will meet weekly until the end of the year.  Let’s make this season feel a little more manageable—maybe even beautiful - together.

Holiday Support Chat, started Monday, November 11th at 11am EST /  5pm CET and meets weekly. Join here. 

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Claudia is an NBC-HWC Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, the owner of Vibrant Health by Claudia LLC  and Virtual Health Coaches LLC. She studied Health and Wellness Coaching at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition where she also completed courses in Gut Health, Hormone Health, and Advanced Coaching. She is a Havening TechniquesⓇ Certified Practitioner and certified 21-Day Sugar Detox Coach as well as a co-author of two Amazon Bestsellers “The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Soul Aligned Business”,  “The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Successful Soul Professional” and “The Ultimate Guide To Leaving Your Legacy.”

To schedule a time for a free information call click here or join her Vibrant Health Power Community - a free Facebook Group - here.