Stress Less

primek

Noting lots of stress with Christmas looming amongst members.

Thought I would share some of the lessons learned in my past few years after crippling depression, breast cancer and losing my Sister in law to endometrial cancer.

What matters in your life?

Connection with people you love.

A job that fills your heart with joy most days...not just an income.

Realising that self care is your job...you can't be there for others if you are broken.

Perfect details....really don't matter in the big scheme of life.

An untidy home is less important than leisure time and time spent with others.

Near enough is often good enough.

Focus on the things that you are in control of...everything else, leave it. 

Think about what will people remember of the day, the perfect table, surroundings and food?  Or will it be the time together or the snappy overstressed Mum?

Worry robs today of its joy and achieves nothing. 

Don't sweat the small stuff.

Take care all...and try not to let stress destroy your Xmas celebrations. 

Kath x

 

Zoffiel

Thanks Kath, and best wishes for a pleasant and relaxing time doing whatever floats your boat in the next couple of weeks.

I'm notoriously non festive but am not immune to the pressure building around me as people send themselves mad and broke in the stores and make overly elaborate (and expensive) preparations for feasts where the company you are in should be the most important thing about the event you are planning.

Anyone who is up to their nostrils in a treatment nightmare needs to be particularly kind to themselves now. Take it easy, abdicate responsibility, stick red and green glitter to your bald noggin if that is your style. Make it all about you--you can resume your selfless martyr routine next year

For anyone who ends up in hospital--well, I could share a story about a Xmas meal I had at Peter Mac years ago but it's probably best I don't. My best advice is order in takeaway (the night staff will be able to tell you which restaurants deliver to the ward)

Mx

[Deleted User]

This is a lovely message at a busy time of the year, thanks Kath. Your positivity is always appreciated. Merry Christmas and I hope 2018 brings you good things. x

onemargie

Well said Kath. Enjoy this festive season. Margie x

iserbrown

Kath is so right, regardless of how you feel going into it, you do survive and you have the ability to cut the visit short and make a polite exit if it is too overwhelming.  For those in this predicament it is the build up worrying about how it may pan out that can be so debilitating.  

Sister

Sound words, all. I hope you all have a relaxing Christmas spent with those who mean the most to you. That's really what's the most important, after all.

JanineG

Thanks Kath. Lovely sensible words, maybe not just for Xmas. 
Merry, happy Xmas  to all xxo Janine 

arpie

Many thanks, @primek - A great message for all of us as we run this never ending treadmill of emotions & fears.

All the best to you for Xmas this year xxx

(Tho I am feeling decidedly UN-Christmasy at this point in time!)  MaYBE once I wrap up Keith's presents, it will start to feel more 'Christmasy'!