Reducing Holiday Season Stress
The winter holidays may be one of the most joyous times of the year but it is also among the most stressful. We face everything from gift-buying expenses, to last-minute shopping pressures, huge crowds, family expectations and planning big get-togethers. With all of this merrymaking, it's no wonder that it's right up there with tax season when stress is concerned.
Fortunately, there are a number of things that you can do to give yourself a break this year. Among them are:
• Creating a holiday budget and sticking to it.
• Planning your presents early, and shopping in advance to make sure to spread the cost over a more manageable amount of time, and to take advantage of sales as they appear. Also, by shopping early, you'll avoid the aggressive last-minute shopping crowds.
• Shop online. As long as you start soon enough so that you can factor in the shipping times, you can avoid the crowds altogether and browse and price-compare to your heart's content. You'll find lots of variety and great deals by shopping online, without the crowded parking lot, aching arms full of bags, and angry mobs of shoppers.
• Buy a couple of small extra gifts, such as chocolates, in case you've forgotten somebody, or you unexpectedly receive gifts from someone you don't usually exchange with.
• Gift wrap your presents as you buy them so that you don't need to do it all at the last minute. Keep a list of what you've purchased so that you don't forget what's underneath all that fancy paper and ribbon.
• If you're holding Christmas lunch or dinner, delegate tasks. Don't be a hero and try to manage everything yourself. Friends and family are always happy to chip in by bringing a dish that they're especially proud of, helping to decorate, or even just sharing their favorite holiday CD.
• Remember to physically prepare yourself for stress by eating healthy, drinking lots of water, and exercising every day. Doing this alone can help to keep those stress levels at a very manageable level. Getting enough sleep can also make all the difference.
Most importantly, if you find that you are feeling the stress this year, get some help before it gets out of control. It's much better to simply visit your local community health center, family doctor, or financial planner to discuss your concerns. Get help so you don't carry everything on your shoulders and live with problems later on.
Happy holidays!
