Tips for a Stress Free Christmas
Stress and Christmas go hand-in-hand, which makes it less of a jolly holiday for many Americans. However, there are several strategies to make the holidays a little less humbug and more enjoyable – no matter how much you have on your to-do list.
Make a list… and check it twice!Write down all of the engagements you have for the holiday season, from company parties to school shows. As soon as you get the dates for these engagements, write them in on a calendar so the time is reserved. Also make a list of all the people you have to buy gifts for, along with how much you are expected to spend. Your list should also include the things that you need to do to prepare for the holidays, such as making Christmas cards, baking cookies or setting up time to go caroling around the neighborhood.
Start earlyNow that you have your list, it may be a little bit overwhelming to look at all that you have to do. Try to start prioritizing things a few weeks before than when you usually start. If you start working on things once December 1 hits, you are sure to be overwhelmed. The earlier you can start working on things, the better. For instance, instead of scheduling a time to get holiday photos done for your Christmas cards, try to get them done earlier in the year and include them in your cards. Many online print stores are already offering holiday deals and specials so you can order these early and have them ready to be mailed once December hits.
Make your gift list easyDo you have to get several small gifts for people like teachers, bus drivers and coworkers? Make it easy on yourself and do the same gift for all. Quick do-it-yourself projects that are affordable includelemon sugar scrubor makegifts in a jar(just include the dry ingredients and the recipe). Visit a local decorative store and buy ornaments or small holiday decorations and wrap them up. Don’t put too much thought into it – it’s the thought that counts.
If you have a large family that still wants to do a gift exchange, suggest doing a “secret snowman” and organization it throughElfster, who will keep track of the wish lists and organize the exchange so you don’t have to worry about anything.
Spend time on youWhen the holidays hit, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. When you are creating your master holiday calendar, make sure to schedule in a night when you can relax. Whether it’s putting your feet up and reading a good book, or getting a massage, me-time is much needed during the holidays and will ensure that your stress levels remain manageable.
