10 Tips to Avoid Holiday Stress

Where did this year go? This question is being asked by me daily now. I was driving to meet my husband for dinner Monday night and some precious soul (over-achiever) already had their Christmas lights up. That was a whole new level of pressure, the likes of which I had never before experienced. Yes, the entire house and yard decorated for Christmas in November. Seriously, who does this?

My husband Rick and I have hosted holiday gatherings of 150+ people and had as many as 7 trees up when we decorated, but never have we decorated prior to the day after Thanksgiving. I mean, why would we, when we had the option of staying up until 5am the night before an event, cooking, cleaning, decorating — did I mention arguing about nearly everything.

OK, so maybe somewhere between is a balance. I was always a last minute kind of girl. I swore I worked better under pressure. I know now that was utter nonsense. I now strive for balance in everything I do — holidays especially.

Here are 10 tips to keep this holiday season balanced for you and your loved ones.

1. Maintain a regular sleeping, eating and exercising schedule. There are  plenty of other changes in your life during this time. Try to keep these schedules consistent.
2. Limit alcohol. I know, I know… aren’t the holidays about celebrating? They are and I am not saying forgo the holiday cheer, just limit it. Alcohol dehydrates, depletes vitamin B and ultimately it is a depressant.
3. Get organized. Keep a calendar or master list for all that you need to do. Stress causes short term memory glitches. (I have been to the grocery store 6 times for vinegar over the last 4 weeks, no lie. Next time, grocery list.)
4. Know your budget and live within it. Set a budget and spend only that amount. Better if you spend cash and enter the new year with no new debt. Sparkly lights, festive music and the desire to make others happy should not create financial stress you will have to endure well past December.
5. Be realistic. Stop putting pressure on yourself to create the “perfect” holiday for your family and friends. Focus on what makes the time special for you. If you know Uncle Bob is going to get tanked and start talking politics and guns after dessert, and that makes you uncomfortable, then set limits on your visit. Perhaps some pumpkin pie to go is not a bad thing.
6. Learn to say no. Say no to things that will not bring you joy so you have time, energy, and room for the things that will. A slice of fruitcake, NO thank you. Some cheesecake, YES please!
7. Work in some “me” time. Focus on your needs and feelings, take time and honor them. Meditation, yoga, a long walk or a cup of herbal tea can be a wonderful break from your day and your challenges.
8. Reconnect with those who feed your spirit. Your college roommate, the maid of honor in your wedding, your Aunt Kathie — you know who they are. You love them and enjoy spending time with them. Phone, visit, or if all else fails, email. Just make an effort to reconnect.
9. Buddy up. Gift wrapping parties, cookie exchanges, pot luck meals — share the tasks and make it fun. Perhaps this is a new tradition in the making and less work for you.
10. Get support if you need it. The holidays can be painful for many people and many reasons. You don’t have to go through this alone. Ask for support. You deserve to Live-Joy-Fully.