**5 Tips**

**Simple suggestions that can invite *rest* and *enjoyment* this holiday season.**

1.) Take your Time

It takes a lot of time and energy when you consider the decorations, the preparation, the stress and the frenzy that often come with the holidays. It’s unfortunate how stressful the holiday season can become. In response, slow down. Take Your time and observe. What can you do today that will help with the upcoming holiday? People will have their expectations, what would you like and how can you help serve others, realistically this year? As you take your time, slow down and enjoy the people and the process. Try your best to stay present with today.

2.) Take a Break

Do you have family coming into town? Consider volunteering to take the garbage out, go for a walk and do what’s helpful to take a break from the constant swirl in the house. It really is okay to take a break. It may be helpful to let people know that this is good for you and your health. Side note: It’s really not about them, but as a result they can benefit. *Deep breaths, brisk walks and re-centered.*

3.) Receive

While it’s better to give than to receive, relationships can be a beautiful mutual exchange. As you’re planning, preparing, serving - remember to look up and enjoy not only the fruit of the labor, but also those serving alongside you. Celebrate the brief time together with people, give thanks for the blessings and receive from those around you. It’s helpful to remember that these memories are passing and we can be thankful for most moments.

4.) Know Your Limits

We are reminded to see the writing on the wall when it comes to recognizing our God-given limits. Many books including the The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, Lead, 40/40 Vision and others have emphasized the importance of knowing our limits! We only have so much time, energy and ability in this life so accept your limits and choose and prioritize wisely. Where are you going this year? Who will be surrounding you? What are the best decisions considering this holiday season? Be safe, choose wisely and live freely in the LORD. There is much freedom in recognizing and accepting our limits. We are encouraged to slow down, take a break, breathe and receive and lastly…

5.) Create Intentional Downtime.

With all that’s involved this holiday season create a day or two that are set apart from the frenzy. Go for a long hike deep in the woods, take a bath away from the noise, and do something intentional to create a sabbath rest. Every week we are invited to celebrate and enjoy a day of rest. Protect the time, invite others in or not.

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Josh Neuer is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Greenville, SC. Josh helps individuals, families, businesses and communities receive hope and healing that literally changes the world! Josh is passionate about empowering meaningful change in people including growing communities and team cultures. He is the founder of Joshua Neuer, LLC Counseling, a committed husband and father, and is absolutely crazy about relationships!