Holidays and introverts are only close as words in a dictionary. In life, the events and this people style don't always mix easily. Ahem ... you may want to head over to iTunes to find one of the original versions of the song titled, The Twelve Days of Christmas. Then, sing a long to that song, with a twist on words for us: ♪♪♬♫ On the first day of Christmas, I gave these gifts to me ♪♪♬♫:

1. Finish your shopping online. Why would you venture out to the maddening crowds to be frustrated and have your energy drained? It's easy enough to buy all gifts online so finish up that gift buying on your computer.
2. Turn on your favorite holiday music. Whether you are listening on your iPod, like me, or some other mp3 player, turn on your favorite holiday music and close the door to the outside world for a while.
3. Have a cup of tea. There are a couple of herbal teas in particular that are calming, so give them a try: Chamomile and jasmine can help you to relax.
4. Exercise for endorphins. I admit I am a workout addict – it's number one on my list of Top 25 Things to Do That Don't Cost Anything! The truth is, those endorphins are a mood enhancer. Why not improve your mood with all the other benefits of exercise, including, keeping those extra holiday calories from sticking?
5. Be selective about party invitations. Practice this statement, "I so appreciate you thinking of me but I've got a previous commitment that night." No need for any explanations, and people will surprise you by not pressing you further.
6. Express gratitude. Being grateful can make you feel better. You can write an email to someone, telephone them or just think of an event that you have good feelings about. Gratitude has it's own energy!
7. Connect with close friends. Fewer and more intimate relationships appeal to you? Then focus on including those people in your holiday plans before you decide to try and become a social butterfly. It's more rewarding for us.
8. Make plans with new connections for after the holidays. Inevitably the holidays are a time you will meet other people. If you are a networker, save the further connection for a time after the season.
9. Meditate or just take some quiet time to recharge your batteries. I find just 10 to 30 minutes a day is enormously energizing.
10. Be self-sufficient. Challenge yourself to take charge and host your own party. Set the start and end time and make the list. Or, offer the host or hostess of a party you attend to help them in a small way. Anyone, extrovert and introvert alike, would welcome some help during a party where they are the host.
11. Savor the moments. Be the picture taker where you go. As collectors of thoughts, we can take the photo task to a meaningful level of being behind the camera. Then we might email copies or get prints made for the attendees. Lots of quiet time to celebrate after the event with the memories.
12. And some time alone in a beautiful place, just for you. I'm so blessed to be just 5 minutes from a beach. I love getting there early in the morning for just 15 to 20 minutes when no one else is around. Just me and the gentle waves, an occasional breeze and nature sounds. Remember, New Years celebrations are just ahead!

The Twelve Days of Christmas song, in some people's thinking has no meaning at all, except a catchy and memorable tune. But the ideas here, in introvert style, are meant to have a positive way of taking care of you and me.

What would you add to the list if it where your song?

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