The time to gather together with family and friends is upon us! I don’t know about you, but this is by far my most favorite time of year.
I look forward to seeing family I do not see often and spending time with them. However, there is usually a load of distractions: from social media to dinners or day-to-day responsibilities, and we can easily lose sight of the importance of spending quality time together.
Although we millennials love it and use it constantly, social media can sometimes filter out some of the joy from our lives. There are pros, as I find that it sometimes causes me to feel so included in a small community of like-minded people; it allows for internet friendships and connections to people that would otherwise not be possible.
However, social media can also have the same polarizing effect in the other direction. It has a way of distorting our reality. It can show us glittering perfection that can never be naturally achieved. Social media will make you think that everyone else’s life is so put together and perfect that you cannot help but compare. Whatever the case may be, do not allow social media to filter out the good and joyous time of the holiday season for you or your family.
To help us focus on being intentionally present during the holidays, I have put together three ways to stay connected with those that are special to you.
- Disconnect from the electronics. I am a total fan of unplugged weddings and events; they have had a recent spike in popularity. Putting your phone away really does make you sit with your hands still and soak in the details all around you. The scents, the background noises, the small talk. I absolutely love it! Now if you take that same concept and apply it to time spent with family, I am sure that you will agree that things will always get creatively interesting! You will be able to focus on those surrounding you without the constant electronic distractions. You will ask more questions, hear a new story, and have deeper conversations that will leave you feeling more in tune with your loved ones. I personally love ignoring my phone when I’m with the ones that I enjoy spending time with. I like to let my OCD side know that all of the texts, emails, and calls can wait.
- Reach out to those who are far away or those you don’t see often. Whether its an aunt or distant cousin in another state, the holidays are the perfect time to reach out to them and check in on how they are doing. If phone calls aren’t your thing, send them a card in the mail. A quick note in the mail just to let them know you’re thinking of them will cheer them up in the biggest way. I am a true fan of snail mail and think that it has the perfect amount of personal touch to make someone feel special. If they are closer to you, put together a goodie basket or bake a pie and drop it off.
- Make an effort to plan a family/group outing that will bring people together. The holidays are filled with dinners and travel to see family. This time of year can be very difficult for those who do not have family nearby or anyone to spend the holidays with. Remember to be kind and reach out to them. Include them in your dinners, parties, and events. Organize an event that everyone can enjoy and participate in, whether that’s a game night, baking cookies, or decorating a Christmas tree.
I would love to hear from you on how you intentionally choose to connect with your loved ones and friends during the holidays! Leave me a comment with your ideas below, or feel free to tag us on Instagram @daintyjewellsblog to share any recommendations!