5 Simple Tips To Keep the Holidays From Stressing You Out

The holiday season that we love (and sometimes dread) is finally here.  The precursor-the holiday decorations and music that popped up in the aisles even before the Halloween goodies were all sold told us this season was soon upon us.

I used to get really stressed out when the holidays were here because I was overwhelmed by how much there was to do.  Nothing like being pregnant or the mom of an infant for the last four Christmas's to put things in perspective because if mom is not happy, no one is happy.

Five Simple Tips to Keep The Holidays From Stressing You Out

I need to remind myself of these things frequently since it is to easy to get caught up in the craziness. 

When the holidays are over, you will have to take down the decorations and face the credit card bills that come rolling in and also face that scale after all of that indulging so be holiday SMART.


Stay out of debt and simplify.

Don't use your credit card if you can help it.  Deferring your bill until after the holidays always sounds like a good idea until you get the bill in the mail and end up using the money you got as a Christmas gift to pay off your credit cards.  If you find yourself overbuying because of all the great deals, keep some goodies for Easter or birthdays or give them to charity. Your kids can only play with so many toys at one time.

Make a list of what you want to do this holiday as a family.  Focus on a few main things and don't make it about doing everything. One holiday event a week is plenty. Also, don't over schedule.  You don't need to attend every single event you are invited to. This is also not the month to schedule unnecessary appointments.  That teeth cleaning can wait until after Christmas.

Make it ahead and make memories.  Don't wait until the last minute for DIY projects.  Stock up ahead on hostess gifts, stocking stuffers,and gifts for last minute parties.  Also, freeze a few meals ahead (and some cookies) so when you are running behind, you have a ready meal and dessert at hand.  Don't forget to savor the experiences of Christmas (including the laughter) and capture the emotions and sights with your camera. 

Attitude.  This is the season about giving and counting your blessings.  Don't let yourself get caught up in things that are not important like family politics or who is the best gift giver.

Rest & relax.  Try to get plenty of sleep at night.  Drink plenty of fluids and try to eat right.  If your going to be out in the crowded stores, dress appropriately and have a bottle of water and some light snacks in your bag.  Also, don't get run down which will only make you feel more stressed out and it may make you sick.  Being sick at the holidays is no fun.

Togetherness. This season is about being together with friends and family.  This is more important than focusing on what you didn't do (like kicking yourself because every single aspect of the holiday meal wasn't from scratch).  Been there, done that.  Cut yourself some slack.  In all honesty, no one will even remember but if you are not happy or there is holiday drama, they will.


Embrace the holiday season. It is the most wonderful time of the year, after all.