BY LAURA BETH PETERS AND LAINIE STUBBLEFIELD

You can’t do everything and you can’t be all things for all people. So, taking time to have some conversations with your family and/or circle of friends, an intentionality of opportunity will set you up for success. Let go of unrealistic expectations that Hollywood and Instagram have put in our heads and you can find delight in each day of the season.

Mindfulness and Reflection- Most importantly, ponder what you are celebrating. What are your values and how is the season going to be reflective of those values? How is your health and the health of your family and friends? Will there need to be changes made this year around health? Have there been significant changes this year with adding/losing family members? Any job changes that might affect the budgeting? Questions like these are going to help in your planning.

Prioritizing- What activities do you enjoy the most? What is important to your spouse, children, and friends? What do you want your children to focus on this season? Start your plan by including those activities on the calendar. Have a discussion about these things. You may be surprised at some answers that you receive.

Stick to your budget and let comparison go- Love does not equal amount of money spent. In fact, some of the most memorable gifts are the creative ones that don’t cost much money. Debt is so stressful that it is sure to rob you of the joy and peace that this season is all about! Keep going back to your values and what you are celebrating as you consider these things and which ones you will be able to include.

Keep in mind the money required for any service projects and take that out of the total budget too.

Planning the Calendar- You already have the most important activities on the calendar after the mindfulness and reflection conversation. So, now consider the things you would like to say yes to and the things you will need to say no to in order to savor the season. Continue to look at possibilities through the lens of your values and goals for the season. Make sure to consider the time it will take for each activity including the shopping, cleaning before and after, cooking and decorating. Do you have to travel during the season? How can you best prepare and not over commit around your travel to make it most enjoyable?

Build in time for rest- Schedule times of rest scattered throughout the calendar and plan for time alone and with family to appreciate the meaning of the season. If you rely on your faith, read the Scriptures and commentaries to get further revelation. Advent is the season leading up to Christ’s birth. There is an acknowledgment of anticipation of His coming. There are many books that will walk you through daily readings that can help keep your focus on what the celebrations are all about. Reading by candlelight and with a special, warm drink may enhance your enjoyment of the season. Another beautiful expression that can cause deep reflection is to attend a church music event or celebration.