Growing up is hard, as we notice most when we get hit by the truck that is our early twenties and college and common adult responsibilities. This truck hits especially hard around Christmas time, I've discovered. The time where all we really want, as we've been doing all our lives prior, is to curl up by the fire with hot chocolate and watch Christmas movies with our families and pets and not worry about anything that isn't wrapped in tinsel and bows. Suddenly, these happy times are replaced with the stress of finals, getting all the shopping done, and worrying about how you're going to pay for everything. Not to mention to poignancy of being away from home or not having the time to actually enjoy the Christmas season. I, being a twenty-something college student myself, have come up with a few ways to handle the stresses of Christmas time.
Money is No Measure
You know how every year you want to get your parents an island or a vacation to Europe because that's what they deserve, but all you can afford is a scented candle and a coffee mug? Me too. But face it, we're in college and struggling to even buy ourselves a cup of coffee. Don't beat yourself up over this. Your parents are supportive of you and they know how hard you're working in school, hopefully. The best gift to them, or to your friends who've had your back through every meltdown since week one, can be a conversation. Sit them down and tell them how much you love and appreciate them, thank them, maybe supplement it by saying it over dinner. It really is the thought that counts- money doesn't measure your appreciation of someone.
Homesickness
This one is hard, especially if it's your first year away from home. You have to hear about how your family is getting the Christmas tree, decorating the house, and watching all your favorite movies when all you have time for is maybe a quick Christmas carol if it comes on the radio. You realize that this might be the first time in your life you aren't home to decorate the tree, bake the cookies or take part of whatever your longtime family holiday tradition may be. I handle this one by finding a new tradition. Maybe getting a small plant and decorating it with your roommates, download the Christmas songs to your Spotify account, and always decorate the dorm or at least your desk. Find a way to personalize your Christmas and make it your own no matter where you are.
Necessary Gifts
Eesh. Sometimes you're obligated to get a gift for someone, if it's an office party or a Secret Santa operation, or they got you something first. Sometimes the heartfelt conversation doesn't quite cut it with a coworker or a Secret Santa you know nothing about. However, nothing's worse than receiving a gift from your Secret Santa and it's a $5.00 iTunes gift card or flowers. Yeah, yeah, it's the thought that counts, but come on. The best way around this one is, in my book, practicality. Everyone needs fuzzy socks, or a travel mug, maybe some ornate paperweights. Find something that isn't obscenely expensive, but doesn't scream sales rack at TJ Maxx either.
Love
The holidays put everyone in a slightly romantic mood, no matter how much of a Grinch you claim to be. But whether you're cuffed or uncuffed you still feel that desire for companionship during the cold winter days. No matter how busy you are, find some time for your friends, family or partner. I find this is the most enjoyable part of the season for me; just enjoying my company. Have a study sesh with your friends, but then go Christmas shopping together, kill two birds with one fun stone. Facetime with your family while they're decorating the tree so you can boss around a sibling or two as to where to put your favorite ornament. Grab some classic movies and a hot chocolate and settle in for a movie night with your S/O, a little relaxation won't hurt your grades or your wallet. Taking some time for you to be with the people you love will make all the stresses of the season seem irrelevant.
Just Relax
There's nothing worse than the holidays coming and going, and then you stop and realize it's over before you even got a chance to really enjoy it. Don't get so caught up in trying to enjoying it, you'll just stress out that you're not enjoying it even more and it's a vicious cycle. Instead, find ways to enjoy the season when the opportunity presents itself. Stop a moment to enjoy the lights, have an extra peppermint hot chocolate, savor the moments with loved ones, sing the carols, and most importantly don't forget you'll be home soon. Presents will be wrapped, travel will be done and finals will be over, and you will be home for the holidays. No matter how far away you roam.
