Ah, December. It's cold. It's Christmas-y. It's chaotic. As we bundle up in sweaters and scarves, spending our money and time shopping 'til we drop, we quite often find ourselves being a bit unpleasant those we like most. When our less charming side starts to show, it's important for us to take a deep breath and simply let go of all that negativity.
Here's the negative part of you that needs to go this December, based on your zodiac sign.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Let Go of Competitive Attitude
Though it’s always healthy to strive to be the best, the holiday season should be much more about togetherness and sharing than one-upping everyone you realize. Trying to outshine your family members as well as your friends with your lengthy listing of this year's achievements doesn't spread the spirit of Christmas. Save that competitive drive for January, and try to work towards a promotion!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Let Go of Vanity
Any Taurus loves to look her (or his) best, but may that desire to sparkle comes at your own expense. Instead of focusing on dressing to impress and longing for the huge pile of presents you need to receive this month, it might serve you well to find your humility and garner a far more down-to-earth spirit. You can still shimmer and shine this winter, just in a more grounded fashion.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Let Go of Judgmental Thoughts
Whether it’s thanks to some stranger acting ridiculously on the special sale at your favorite store or perhaps your own grandmother throwing you absurd questions, your tendency is to jump to a judgmental headspace. This time of year is all about giving and love, though! Shouldn’t we be thinking kind thoughts during the holidays? Reserving your judgement is no easy task, especially this time around of year, but it’s an essential one.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Let Go of Sensitivity
Though many people think of crabs as having that arduous shell to protect them, the fact is that most Cancers have a vulnerable side, just like everyone else. Sometimes, dear Cancer, you have a tendency to take others' words to heart and become overly sensitive to criticism, and that we all know that time with family during the holidays opens up the door to more critical blows than usual. Work towards letting things bounce off that shell and not break your heart. Let go of your sensitivity this month.
Leo (July 23-August 22)
Let Go of Arrogance
Oh, dear Leo, you thrive on being the best (and often, you are). However, nobody likes a know-it-all in the company Christmas party or a holier-than-thou attitude in the latest family gathering. Attempt to strip off that haughty nature due to this month, and see how your humility changes the world around you. You may be surprised the way the world blossoms blossoms from this less arrogant you.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
Let Go of Self-Pity
It’s increasingly simple to get wrapped up in your emotions, especially if the holidays bring up unpleasant memories from your past. It’s important to remember, though, that pity parties are never in style. Although you may not have a new, expensive car or get the most likes on your latest Instagram picture, you aren't any less worthy than your flashier friends. Everyone loves you for who you are, particularly when you don’t whine about how exactly nobody likes you.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
Let Go of Manipulative Tendencies
It’s no surprise that you are a social butterfly who loves to be the center of attention. Sometimes, though, you should use your charisma and deep connections with others in ways don't make you proud. Though it’s incredibly tempting to show people into puppets, try to forget about those controlling desires just for a couple of weeks. Letting go of your manipulation may also mean relinquishing that perfect image of the holidays and that overwhelming urge to keep the peace. Just go with the flow, and you’ll be far happier this month.
Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Let Go of Cruelty
Sometimes your sting can really hurt, Scorpion. You don’t always plan to cause harm, but being warm and fuzzy also isn’t your forte. Sometimes, your blunt nature implies that you come across and cold and cruel; sometimes, that cruelty is even intentional. This month, make a conscious effort to spread kindness rather than hatred. You may have to spend some extra time thinking before you speak, but trust me, the happiness you receive in return is going to be worth it.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
Let Go of Argumentative Nature
Oh, how a Sagittarius loves a good battle of wits or perhaps a clean fight with words! However, it is sometimes best to bury the hatchet, even if the other party isn’t right. Work at releasing that urge to choose a fight this December, and spread pleasantries instead.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
Let Go of Pessimism
You might say you are simply a realist, but often, Capricorn, your lifestyle is a bit too gloomy for most. You tend to find the worst in everything- the holidays. This year, though, try giving a different gift; one with a little more light. You don’t have to feign absolute joy; just try to let go of your pessimistic attitude. Once you let in a little optimism, y may find the world glows more than you realized.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18)
Let Go of Overanalyzing Mind
This season can be troublesome for you since you spend all your time (over)thinking. Sometimes, though, whenever we think about our problems an excessive amount of, we talk ourselves out of doing what we need. Overanalyzing results in catastrophizing and fortune telling, neither which are ever accurate or great for your mental health. This month, it would be in your best interest to stop trying to find hidden meaning in everything sniffing out the worst-case scenario. Just let go and revel in every moment as it comes.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Let Go of Clingy Urges
Pisces, you are highly emotional, and because of that, sometimes you have a tendency to cling. You may cling to people, memories, routines, or possessions; it's all regulated really the same. The problem is, sometimes, those really wants to cling cause you to miss out on the current or put you in a deeply emotional state of mind. It's OK to feel things this month, but try to let go of those clingy tendencies, so you can truly enjoy the holiday magic.
So you've now learned what to take off the Christmas menu this season to land you on Santa's nice list. Without these uncouth character traits that we all possess, you'll find the holidays to be all the more merry and bright. So, snuggle up with those you love and sing yuletide carols into the night. Happy Holidays!
Previously Published on Thought Catalog
Photo by Rodolfo Sanches Carvalho on Unsplash
