Do you often feel yourself overly stressed this time of year?
Or freaking out because there is just so much more to do then you’re even your normal hectic lifestyle?
If so, you’re not alone.
– According to a 2010 healthcare report, 69% of people feel stressed this time of year due to “lack of time”.
– 75% of people feel stressed this time of year.
– According to the American Psychological Association 51% of people feel stressed out over the “pressure to give or get gifts”.
This is a time of year when we should be focused on sharing, getting together with friends and family and truly enjoying the spirit of Christmas. Why then do we continue to allow ourselves to be controlled by outside forces?
Think about how you can simplify, delegate and eliminate your way to a better quality of life.
I can tell you that for me personally I host many holiday dinners and exchange gifts with a large family, but as time has gone on and my priorities have changed, I find that my attachment to finding the “perfect gift” and hosting “the best party” are no longer the reasons that motivate me. Better yet, by preparing early, I can enjoy the time and social gatherings I don’t normally get to experience throughout the year.
I have listed a few simple tips that might help you take the edge off this holiday season …
Plan Early:
Take a look at what parties and events you’ll be attending or hosting. Map out the entire next 6 weeks of celebrations. By looking at a full time line, you’ll be able to visualize everything all at once. From food you need to buy for a holiday dinner to a new outfit you want to purchase for that big black tie event. A paper calendar actually comes in very handy for this type of planning.
Make a master list:
Make a list and break it down into categories: gifts, wrapping supplies, decorating supplies, cards, teacher’s gifts, mail man, etc… Next, look at your plan from above and list any house warming gifts, even that new pair of shoes for your little girl’s holiday dress. List everything! Once you have your list compiled, break it down into “stores”. This will prevent you from having to go back to the same store multiple times for forgotten items.
Shop Early:
Try to have all your shopping done by no later than 2 weeks before Christmas. The lines and traffic alone will double your normal shopping time. This is such an added stressor that can easily be avoided. Not only does shopping so close to the holiday suck up your time, but it impacts those family oriented activities I’m sure you would prefer to take part in. The parades and home tours for example. And if you remember my tip from last year, be sure to wrap as you are buying. That’s a lesson I learned the hard way! Santa was always pulling OT at my house on Christmas Eve getting to those last minute preparations.
Set Limits:
First off you don’t have to accept every invitation to every party or event unless this is something you truly look forward to. If it doesn’t bless your soul… say no for a change and spend that quality time in a manner that enriches your life! Buy prepared foods, consider having a meal catered this time of year. Think outside the box and don’t allow others expectations to lead your own holiday enjoyment.
Remember to take care of yourself:
It’s inevitable that even with all the planning you do in advance; we still put additional stress on our bodies this time of year. Be sure to remember to take time for yourself. Schedule a massage. Go for a walk in the brisk air. And be sure to maintain healthy eating.
Give yourself the Gift of Time this year to spend your precious moments with those that matter the most to you.
