Traditions are one of the best elements of Christmas.
Part of that Christmas magic that we’re compelled to create for our kids comes from doing the same special things year after year. Memories are impressed into our hearts exponentially when we do them again and again.
But when traditions make Christmas stressful, it’s time to cut some of them loose.
Sometimes we can build up such a repertoire of traditions that we go crazy trying to do them all. Some traditions are so elaborate that they become not worth it after a while. (Elf on the Shelf, anyone? No offense if you love it, it just sounds exhausting.)
The hard thing about giving up traditions is that people will be disappointed. So it’s important to choose the ones that aren’t quite as essential (keep the bake-off with Grandma, but lose matching Christmas outfits, for instance).
And remember, you can’t please everyone. Sometimes there will be a little disappointment for the sake of our sanity and joy. That’s kind of a harsh truth.
So don’t pitch all your traditions. Only the ones that are lower on the totem pole, and the ones that aren’t fun anymore.
When you aren’t over-extended, the traditions you keep will be a lot more fun!
How do traditions factor into your Christmas?
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