The holidays are a time of festivity, parties, shopping, entertaining, religious observances, family gatherings, decorating and stress! With all the extra demands we place on ourselves and expectations of the season, is it any wonder that most of us feel stress during the holiday season? The source of holiday stress is simple; when it comes to time, money, social and family commitments, most people try to do too much. Here are some strategies for making your holidays a time of renewal.
Set Priorities : Try not to overextend yourself during the holidays. It is not necessary to attend every party or celebration that comes along. Decide what activities you and your family would most enjoy doing and focus on those. Share responsibilities for cooking and baking with others. Learn to say "no" gently but firmly to social events that are over your limit.
Plan Ahead: Nothing creates more holiday stress than last minute shopping and preparations. Take charge of your holidays in advance by making lists of things to do and setting aside some times for each of them.
Keep It Simple: A holiday feast doesn't have to be elaborate to be wonderful. Often traditional fare is appreciated most, with guest providing some of the dishes. When shopping, take advantage of free gift wrapping services.
Stay in Budget: Learn to say no to expensive holiday ideas. Choose simple, thoughtful or useful gifts over elaborate, expensive surprises. You can't and won't enjoy the holidays worrying about paying your bills.
The Emotional Roller Coaster: The holidays are hard on our emotions. The holidays of our childhood take on a magical glow that is often impossible to recover in adulthood. While the radios and department stores are blaring messages of peace and joy, you are dreading the family gathering that always lead to someone not speaking to someone else. If family gatherings are stressful, avoid long visits, either in your house or away. Defer settling family arguments until some other time. Be willing to let go of old traditions if they no longer work for your family, and find new ones that do.
Take Care Of Yourself: Counter the holiday, pressures by giving yourself some time for rest and renewal each day. Avoid overindulgence in holiday food, alcohol and caffeine. Think about what the holidays are actually celebrating and try to stay tune to that spirit. Peace and joy can be more than just a department store come-on. Let this holiday season be enjoyed and well remembered.
