How to Make the Holiday Season Less Stressful
Avoid letting stress rob you of holiday joys this season. Give yourself a gift by preparing to manage the high-intensity season with thoughtful planning.
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You Will Need
- Plan
- Helpers
- Family peace treaty
- Realistic expectations
- Budget (optional)
- Volunteer opportunities (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Make a list
Make a list of your priorities and check it twice, making sure it realistically aligns with your available time and energy. Don't take on more than you can handle.
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Step 2
Plan
Plan days for shopping, sending cards, baking, and other favorite holiday activities.
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Maintain a gift, food, and entertainment budget to avoid the stress of overspending.
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Step 3
Delegate tasks
Delegate tasks to other family members, keeping in mind that even small children are capable of providing an extra hand.
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Step 4
Create time for yourself
Create time for yourself to refresh, recharge, and keep focused on what is truly meaningful about the season.
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Step 5
Avoid overindulgence
Avoid overindulgence, resisting the extra goodies and drinks, and stay committed to caring for your body with adequate sleep and exercise.
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Grab a healthy snack before holiday parties to reduce the temptation to overdo on high calorie foods.
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Step 6
Make a peace treaty
Make a peace treaty with family members with whom you have differences, setting aside a later time to address conflicts.
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Volunteer to help others if you are alone for the holidays.
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Step 7
Maintain a realistic attitude
Maintain a realistic attitude, letting go of perfection, and adapt to family changes and circumstances, while remembering to hold precious the small things that make lasting memories.
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The average American gains about one pound during the holiday season.
