5 Life Hacks for Happier Holidays [Slideshow]

Change Your Perception

Guide your perception to remind yourself that the holidays are temporary, only come once a year and that they don't have to be negative. This will send you on your way to a new mindset that will affect everything you do. 

Think positively to attract positive outcomes.  Be grateful for the opportunity to see another holiday season. Gratitude is a powerful tool for transforming your perception and reducing stress. 

Give to Yourself 

While it's widely understood that it's the season of giving to others, consider that without being good with yourself, you'll have a hard time with others. Make sure to manage your self-care practices while attending to the demands of the holidays. Use self-care as a way to survive the holidays on your own terms.

Up Your Emo-Intel 

Emotional intelligence is critical for the understanding of yourself, as well as those around you. It's like a superpower that allows you not to take things personally, and to see people with compassion for their human experience instead of judgment. 

Up your emotional intelligence by observing others' feelings and nonverbal cues, as well as by asking questions and remaining open-minded. Work to better understand those around you in close relationships as well as acquaintances.

Get Fresh Air

Spend time outdoors this holiday, not one of the obligatory photo-of-the-season moments outside. Spend the kind of time where you can connect with nature, get grounded, and breathe fresh air. Breathing fresh air can actually help to lift your mood, and sunshine can help with your mental state. 

Take advantage of the completely free and accessible therapy that is the world around you for a happier holiday. 

Affirm Your Way Through

This one is simple—but boy can it make waves. Affirmations are a small but significant way to root yourself firmly amidst the chaos that the holidays often bring. They help to anchor you despite whatever is occurring so that you can focus on what matters most.

They help you to gravitate toward your center and bring you to inner peace. Affirmations are your key for handling holiday stress and can help you have a happier holiday experience.