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How to deal with Christmas gift jealousy

Imagine this, you return back to school after a much-needed winter break. You're excited to see your pals and catch up about all the cool new gifts you got...only to find out that they got some of the gifts on your wishlist—yes, even the Ugg boots you've been obsessing over!

Tbh, Christmas gift jealousy is a real thing, and we're here to help you overcome it. First thing first? It's important to realize that material goods are nice, but they do *not* define your worth.

1. Count your blessings

Sure, it might be easier to think of all the things you don't have, especially when you've been making your Christmas wishlist *all* year long. Instead, though, try to change the narrative in your brain and focus on the highlights from the holiday szn. OK, so you didn't get a new laptop...but how sweet was it for Grandma to knit you two hats so you can give one to your bestie?

2. Change the subject

If you're determined to ditch this jealousy, the straightforward option is to cut off the convo. You might bring up a different aspect of Christmas break, like the delish pie your dad made, or switch subjects altogether ("Ugh, I hope the math homework is easy tonight. I have zero motivation to do geometry!"). 

3. Put things into perspective

Just because your friends have you thinking about all the ways Christmas fell flat this year, doesn't mean you're eternally doomed. Just think—with your birthday next year and any other celebrations, you'll have plenty of opportunities to get some top-notch presents. We def understand your disappointment, and subsequent jealousy, from not getting what you had in mind, but try not to dwell on it for too long. After all, you have a million Christmases left to experience!

4. Take a second to think 

Before you blurt out something you might regret in the long run, think before you speak. Will this matter in three days, weeks or months? Most likely not. In a couple of days, you'll probably forget why you were upset in the first place. People have *very* short attention spans, so there's no need to worry. 

5. Don't blame your friends

Remember, it's not your friends' fault as to why they received the gifts they got. Holding a grudge will only make matters worse and create more probs, which is not fun! Friends are forever, gifts are temporary. 

6. Think positive thoughts 

Yes, we know that it might be hard to think positive thoughts when all you can think about is "Why didn't I receive new pair of Uggs, too?" Instead of thinking negatively, try to redirect your mind to something more optimistic. Next time one of your friends is talking about their new boots, try saying something like, "What outfit do you think you'll wear with it" or "Those are super cute, you should tote wear them to the next football game!".

Looking for more winter reads? We've got you:

☃️ Your way-to-early guide to decorating your room for Christmas
☃️ 5 Christmas cookies you have to bake this season
☃️ The ultimate guide to dressing *cozy* this winter

What was your favorite Christmas present this year?
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GIFs via Giphy

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by Nadia Payne and Riley Yates | 12/27/2022
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