Holiday Stress Busters
By: Women’s Excellence
It’s the most wonderful time of the year….or so they say. In fact, 8 out of 10 Americans anticipate stress and anxiety during the holiday season, according to American Psychological Associations Stress in America Study. With all the work, family, and friend obligations, the holidays can be more of a burden than a chance to relax for most people. Let’s relieve some of that stress with these great holiday stress busters.
Here are 5 tips to help you ENJOY the holiday season and embrace time with your loved ones.
1. Make a list
….and check it twice! It’s never too early to start thinking about gifts, parties, food, and decorations. Create a detailed list of everything you need to sail smoothly through this holiday season. We recommend having easy access to your lists, like on your mobile device, so that you can quickly make updates when needed.
2. Prioritize & Learn to Say No
The holidays are all about staying home and cuddling up to a warm fire with a big mug of hot cocoa, right? For most people, the words “holiday” and “relaxing” do not go hand in hand. The holidays are not around for long and time off from work goes fast. Remember, it is okay to say NO. Your family’s time is valuable, and it is important to realize that you cannot do everything or please everyone. Prioritize and plan your family’s time to make sure that you do not over extend yourself.
3. Schedule & Plan
Speaking of planning, this is one of the most important holiday stress busters! Grab your calendar and identify any free time that you have. Schedule all your obligations ahead of time so that there are no last-minute surprises to your schedule. Scheduling ahead of time means you can start buying any necessary gifts, food, clothes, and anything else you may need in advanced.
4. Stick to a budget
We are all too familiar with the post-holiday blues when the first credit statement of the year hits your email. Sticking to a budget will not only alleviate your stress, but also give you a sense of accomplishment that you did not go beyond your means. Try to calculate your budget early in November and track all of your holiday spending for the next two months. Be sure to include more than gifts in your budget. Food, desserts, drinks, decorations, and activities can all add up quickly!
5. Have Fun
Yes….you will burn a batch of cookies.
Yes….you won’t be able to find this year’s hottest toy.
And yes….you will have to spend time with your crazy, out-spoken cousin.
Going into the holiday season knowing that things won’t be perfect will be your biggest holiday stress buster. Find laughter in the mistakes, joy in all your blessings, and relief knowing that there’s always next year!