Don’t let the holidays stress you out

Even though the temperatures outside may not feel like it, the holidays are right around the corner. And with that … holiday madness.

‘Tis the season for shopping, family gatherings, friends, presents and stress. Stress seems to be one of those words used year-round but takes on special meaning during the holiday season. Because of early advertising each year the holiday season seems to get longer and longer. 

We start seeing advertisements for Christmas before Halloween. Holiday parties seem to be starting earlier each year, and we look at our checkbook and wonder how we will be able to afford all the things our kids have put on their holiday list. Our hearts beat a little faster and we’re reminded of what the holidays were like when we were kids. 

Every year we tell ourselves it will be different next year, we will plan better and get started earlier and not let the stress of the holidays get to us.

Yet here we are again … the stress cycle or, for some, the stress treadmill, has begun. 

Here are a few tips to ease the burden a bit: 

• Decide it is OK for something not to get done if replaced with a more necessary holiday activity. 
• Limit the number of activities and learn to say “No” – and believe “No” is a complete sentence that does not have to be explained.
• Make a list, and each day check off what needs to be accomplished. Be proud of those accomplishments.
• Begin talking to the children about what is really important during the holiday season.
• Have a budget that is discussed with the family so everyone knows how much money is available for spending on gifts.
• Have children draw a name of a sibling and give them money so they can buy their own gifts this year.
• Ask each child, “Is it important to have many small gifts or one important gift that you really want?”
• Prioritize time and make a list of every holiday activity.
• Make a list of gifts and stick to the list; it will reduce overspending and the depression that can come when the bills start coming in after the holidays.
• Do not take the kids shopping with you.

So, with holiday madness around the corner, remember during the holidays, or any time of year, we all have a choice about what will cause us stress and how we can prevent that stress.