As the holiday season unfolds, many find themselves grappling with a unique challenge: the pressure to fulfill numerous social commitments.
A recent study published by the American Psychological Association exposes holiday overwhelm and the extent to which individuals put strain on themselves during this festive time, with 77% of respondents admitting to accepting unwanted invitations solely to evade potential consequences.
Lead study author Julian Givi, an assistant professor at West Virginia University, warns that succumbing to this pressure can lead to holiday burnout, urging individuals not to be afraid to turn down invitations. In this report, we delve into the study’s findings and explore expert recommendations on avoiding holiday burnout.
Conducted by Julian Givi and his team, the study comprised five social experiments involving over 2,000 participants. The experiments examined scenarios such as a Saturday dinner invite to a local restaurant with a celebrity chef and a couples survey.
Across these experiments, a consistent pattern emerged: invitees tend to overestimate the negative ramifications of declining invitations.
The study found that almost 80% of individuals put immense pressure on themselves to attend events during the holiday season.
Givi emphasizes the importance of not fearing the occasional refusal while acknowledging that spending time with others is crucial for relationship development. The research sheds light on the tendency of individuals to exaggerate the perceived negative impact of declining invitations on their relationships.
Coping with Holiday Overwhelm
Psychologist Matthew Sacco from the Cleveland Clinic weighs in on the causes of holiday burnout. He identifies a change in routine and the disruption of daily expectations as major stressors during this time.
To combat burnout, Sacco suggests engaging in open conversations with oneself and loved ones to understand holiday priorities and manage expectations. Learning to say no when necessary is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy balance.
The Power of Saying “No”:
Givi emphasizes that the negative ramifications of turning down invitations are often far less severe than expected. While there may be moments of disappointment, the research indicates that people tend to overestimate the impact on relationships.
Encouraging individuals to prioritize their well-being, Givi dispels the notion that saying “no” comes with insurmountable consequences.
Strategies to Avoid Holiday Burnout:
Sacco provides practical advice for navigating the holiday season without succumbing to burnout. Initiating conversations with family members about their holiday expectations and desires helps set realistic goals.
Learning to say no when necessary is a valuable skill in preserving one’s mental and emotional well-being. Sacco also emphasizes the importance of appreciating the positive moments, especially when surrounded by loved ones.
To ensure a positive experience during events, Sacco suggests taking moments to appreciate the positives, particularly when hosting or attending gatherings. Finding reasons to step outside and release stress during an event can be a helpful tactic.
By focusing on the essential elements that contribute to a joyful atmosphere, individuals can create scenarios where others genuinely enjoy themselves and look forward to future occasions.
As the holiday season unfolds, the study’s revelations and expert insights serve as a guide for individuals navigating the delicate balance between social commitments and personal well-being.
Understanding the power of saying “no” and engaging in meaningful conversations to set realistic expectations are essential tools in combating holiday burnout. By embracing these strategies, individuals can reclaim the joy of the season and foster positive, memorable experiences with loved ones.
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