The holidays are a season for traditions. Some traditions are as simple as going as a family to pick a Christmas tree, while others may consist of time-consuming, patience testing, and energy draining activities that result in exhaustion. While customs are a fun way to celebrate the season, have you ever wondered if some of your traditions are really worth the time and energy?
Maybe it’s time to analyze what traditions are truly meaningful and which ones aren’t. For example, if baking 10-dozen Christmas cookies is an annual event that you have to squeeze in between working, cleaning, shopping and more, why do it? I know I used to bake dozens of cookies and get my kids to help out. When they were younger, they liked it. The other day they were bored after the first kind and as I looked around at the very messy kitchen and kids who deserted me, I decided 2 dozen cookies were plenty.
Do you buy gifts for everyone in your family? Not only is it expensive, but also you may want to ask yourself if it’s necessary. I have a large family. I have 16 nieces and nephews, way too many to buy gifts for. So for the past few years, we have decided to exchange names and buy only for as many nieces and nephews as one has kids (fortunately I only have 2 kids which means I only have 2 presents to buy).
Don’t’ get me wrong — I do enjoy observing many customs and traditions and perhaps should ask myself which of these really add to the celebration of the season and which take away from the joy of it.
Do you have any customs/traditions that you think may be more of a waste of energy than a celebration of the season? Share your thoughts here.
