The Holiday Grouch

How to Spot a Holiday Grouch:

This one is easy! They may literally be wearing a Grinch shirt and they will be the one at the gift exchange “re-gifting” horrible gag gifts they’ve received in the past.

Traits:

The Holiday Grouch doesn’t actually dislike the holidays, they’ve just been disappointed too many times. They remember when they made sure to bring a thoughtful gift to the White Elephant exchange…and they went home with a gag gift. One time it was a reindeer who “pooped” jelly beans or the worst one of all…another holiday mug. The Grouch even tried that whole ridiculous “Elf on the Shelf” tradition, but tears were shed, young children were disappointed, and the Grouch doesn’t speak of that time anymore.

Over the years, it’s just all been a let down and they can’t spend their time, money and effort on all of the “silly” holiday traditions. They certainly don’t care if you do though!…it gives them something to chuckle about when they’re sitting on the fringes of the holiday party. Cheers!

Tips:

First, congratulations on sticking to your boundaries; the world needs more people like you! But don’t let the holidays pass by without tapping into some of the magic and joy that’s available.

Schedule Self Care

• Make sure you are feeling your best during this time of year by making good habits a priority. Being diligent about daily movement, getting outside, nourishing your body, getting enough quality sleep, and giving yourself space to focus on what’s important to you about the holidays will make you feel grounded. Go put those things on your calendar now. You won’t regret it.

Use your Super Power

• You care and you just maybe might be a teensy bit sensitive. (and no we’re not going to tell anyone! Your secret’s safe with us!) Make a point of helping others right now because so many need it; children in the foster system, single parents and nursing homes are wonderful places to invest a little effort. You may even find yourself inspired to organize a cookie drive! Don’t worry, you can wear your Grinch shirt. We won’t blow your cover.

If you have a Holiday Grouch in your life:

Let’s be honest; the Grouch has some valid reasons for not throwing themselves into the three-ring circus that the holidays can become. This time of year can be overwhelming and isolating for many so make sure your Grouch is still engaging with what brings them joy and re-focusing on what lifts them up.

And please, don’t bring up the Elf of the Shelf debacle. It’s still too soon. It may always be… “too soon”.