I'm a lover of the holiday season because that means I get to see my family. It's a lot harder to see them nowadays since I've moved away and work is a thing, and living your best life means I go other places besides my home town when I get a day off. Sometimes it makes me sad because I don't see my parents as much as I would like but luckily there are phones and social media that keep us connected but there's really something about physically being in your parents home and back to where you grew up.
I'm one of those people who always wants to be productive when I go home for some strange reason. I'm always trying to do everything and have a time schedule of who I'm going to see when. The hardest part is seeing my friends. These past few years that I have gone home I have had to forgo my plans and just go with the flow. If you're like me and have a hard time slowing done when you're at home here are a few ways you can maximize your time at home.
Slow down and Take a Deep Breath
This is probably the most crucial piece of advice I can give you. There is always work to be done and tasks to complete. We all know that there are not enough hours in a day or days in the year to feel caught up and prepared. Instead of stressing out, take some time to really relax and enjoy the down time. Let go of some of your responsibilities. Take your apple watch off and turn off your morning alarm. When was the last time you just let you body dictate your sleep schedule.
Go with the Flow
I'll admit I have a hard time just going with the flow when I'm home because I want to do everything and be everywhere, but sometimes you just have to sit back and enjoy. A lot of times plans will be made day of and if you're available and have the energy to go then go and live your best life. some of the best memories happen when you are spontaneous.
Be Intentional with spending time with your family.
There are days when I wish I could just hang out with my parents and siblings and do absolutely nothing. The holidays are a great time to do that. Just have open conversations with them. Ask them how they are doing and how life has been. go to dinner and just bask in the presence. I use my time with my family to try and learn something new about them. You'd be surprised how little you know about them. Use this time to shower them with love so that they miss you when you're gone.
Be Nostalgic
When was the last time you just took the time to reminisce on memories. to think about how home has shaped you into the person you are today. St. Louis will always be home for me. I was born and raised there, most of my friends were made there and my fondest memories were made in St. Louis. It has changed so much since I left but there are still some staples I always want when I'm back in town. For example, I have to stop by Schnucks and get some wings. (They are literally BOMB.com (just thinking about them now makes me want to go home)) I also for some reason want to go downtown and just roam. It was my playground and now that I'm old enough I can really enjoy everything St. Louis has to offer. Be a tourist in your home town. Go to the new attractions and try the new restaurants.
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