The holidays are upon us and for the majority of us, this is the happiest time of the year.  Time with family, decorations, giving gifts, and an attitude of kindness help us to get in the holiday mood.  However, for many this can also be one of the most stressful and difficulty times of the year.  Financial stress, grief over lost loved ones, fear of missing out, and perfectionism are among some of the many reasons we may struggle during this time of the year.  In one study done by Caran Treatment Centers, they found that, More than 2 in 5 (44%) say they strive for perfection during the holidays and 1 in 3 adults (32%) say their high expectations are usually met with disappointment. It is important to our physical and mental health to be able to cope with these stressors.  One of the most helpful mental health interventions  to consider is embracing the present.

Focusing on the present moment and letting go of perfectionism during the holidays can go a long way towards feeling fulfilled and focusing on what is most important during the holidays.  Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Find joy in the simple moments.  Keeping a gratitude journal and recognizing the many things we have to be grateful can keep us from focusing on what we lack or perceive as a weakness. 
2. Review your holiday traditions and consider simplifying them. Choose a few meaningful activities or traditions that bring joy, and let go of the ones that feel like obligations.
3. Prioritize Self-Care. Take time to exercise, go for a walk, take a bath etc.
4. Shift your focus from creating a flawless holiday experience to fostering meaningful connections with loved ones. Remember that the essence of the holidays is about spending time with those you care about.
5. Use Mindfulness.  Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine. Mindful breathing and staying present can help you let go of worries about the past or future, allowing you to enjoy the current moment.