You’ve heard it everywhere. The groans and mumbles about “Christmas decorations before it’s even Halloween”. The complaints about Christmas season are so ubiquitous that the negativity spreads quickly. Every year I hear more people complaining about Christmas. The part that really hits home, is that sometimes it’s kids complaining. Kids are supposed to love Christmas. The problem is, they frequently absorb things from adults.
Of course, everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. However, consider the positive sides of thinking about Christmas. If you legitimately aren’t a fan of the holiday, that’s one thing. If your mood is influenced by too many nearby grinches, that’s another.
Personally, I love Christmas. Writing for a company centered on holidays is a dream come true. I could think about Christmas in March and still be content. Maybe I’m an extreme case, but I’m here to remind you of the wonderful things it has to offer. I created a list of reasons it’s OKAY to think about Christmas in October, or even September. Don’t let what “they” say take the magic of Christmas away.
Preparation
We covered early Christmas shopping in a previous post. You have more time to shop, wrap, decorate, and prepare for Christmas. This is a huge help if you’re normally a procrastinator who ends up stressed in the weeks before Christmas. Preparation also leaves you more time for creative ideas, DIY projects, and perfecting your recipes. Overall, it’s a good idea to get ready for Christmas about two or three months ahead of time.
Excitement and Anticipation
What’s so wrong about being excited for Christmas when it’s still autumn? People are excited about weddings, birthdays, graduations, and other large events. In fact, people anticipate these events about 6-12 months beforehand. My 30th birthday isn’t until July 2016 and I have most of it planned already. Don’t worry. It’s completely normal, and healthy, to excite yourself and kids about Christmas.
Relaxation
As mentioned above, when you have more time to plan and shop, you have more time to relax. Never underestimate the importance of quality alone time during the holidays. You’re frequently hosting family events, shopping in crowds, and taking the kids to holiday activities. You need some YOU time.
Positivity
Just as negative moods can spread like wildfire, positive feelings are contagious. When you’re happy about the holiday, you’ll share that with friends, kids, and everyone near you. The light inside of you will shine and boost moods. Maybe you won’t convert everyone, but you’ll still add cheer and joy instead of complaints and anger.
Create Traditions
You have the time to create unique, special traditions for your kids to pass down. Taking the kids out to Christmas shop in autumn will not only add to the anticipation, but it will also create a happy memory for them. Each year they’ll look forward to doing something just a little different from most people. They’ll feel special and enjoy the bonding time.
Sherrie Carter