Growing up in the U.S., we hear about the stresses that people encounter during certain holiday seasons – Xmas, New Years, Valentine’s Day. People experience social anxiety from dysfunctional family relationships or loneliness.
But in an adult Jew’s life, the month of Tishrei, laden with Holidays and fasts, immerses us into a G-d conscious existence, and strips us away from our everyday lives. In college, this was particularly stressful because of missed classes, exams, and homework. In the working world, deadlines and lost time can mean unhappy clients or dwindling bank accounts.
How should we deal with all this?
- Communicate
Be up-front with your clients. Make sure they’re prepared for a work slowdown, and assure them that their business is important to you, and you’ll do the best you can when you have the time.
If you’re experiencing a financial crunch, talk to your friends and family – they’ll be happy to help, or at least be supportive. - Prepare
Squeeze in as much as you can before the Chagim (Holidays) begin, push yourself just a little bit more to get ahead of schedule, so you can breeze easier during the festivities. - Let Go
When you can’t be working, it’s important to stop thinking about money or work. If you’re in the synagogue, pray for assistance, but don’t feel pressure, because there’s nothing you can do now.
Use this time for re-establishing your relationship with G-d and believe that He will take care of you, and turn the hard times into hope and opportunity.