With the Holidays in full swing, and Thanksgiving already behind us, the stress of this time of year may be already rearing its ugly head. Unfortunately while this is the most wonderful time of year, it also comes with a large dose of busy schedules and long to do lists. It’s so easy to lose focus of what this season is about and just get wrapped up in the stress of it all. Here are 5 tips on how to manage your holiday stress so you can make the most of every day of this magical season.
1. Schedule
I cannot stress this enough. If you and your spouse both have a million and one things going on, (and lets not even mention the kids schedules), during this next month, then take the time to sit down one night and go over your calendar together. If you have a plan on who is doing what, and when you’ll need sitters, things will run a lot more smoothly in your home.
2. Prioritize
While I love a good Christmas party and gathering, there is probably more events then there are days of the week during this season, am I right? Since it’s unlikely you will be able to attend every single event you are invited to make sure to prioritize what are the most important for you and your family. Obviously your kids school Nativity play are going to come above grabbing that peppermint white mocha with a girlfriend.
3. Make a Bucket List
I always get half way through the Christmas Season and realize I have about a million “must do” activities to accomplish in the last two weeks. Not only does this amp up the stress, it also means we end up having to make sacrifices in order to pick what we want to do the most. This year I’ve made a Christmas bucket list with all our “must do” activities so we can make sure to check them off one at a time.
4. Be Intentional With Your Time
Along with creating that super handy bucket list, we also are learning to manage our time better. For example, you want those cute family Christmas Cards at the tree farm? Well, why not schedule yourself a whole day so you can pick up your tree and take your photos at the same time and save yourself a trip? I call that #winning.
5. Get Started Early
I know people say Christmas is coming earlier and earlier every year, I for one can’t say I mind at all, I would be happy if Christmas lasted all year. In fact, if it’s going to make your holiday season less stressful then start shopping as early as you want. One of these years I’m going to write my Christmas list early so I know exactly what I need when the Holidays roll around. Now, I’m not saying to put your tree up the first week of November, but it doesn’t hurt to get a head start of the holiday planning and finances.
6. Say “No”
Of course, friends, parents, grandparents and everyone else wants to spend time with your and your kiddos around the Holidays. But sometimes we have to have to start a healthy habit of saying, “no”. Granted, there is a certain amount of give and take when it comes to extended family as there are a lot of schedules to juggle, but it’s also important that your made time for your own family, as well. If you find yourself being asked to stop by 4 Christmas dinners in one day, it’s time to cut back.