The holiday season is supposed to be the happiest time of year, filled with celebrations, gift giving and merriment.
Unfortunately for most women, this time of year also comes with mountains of added things to do piled on top of their already constantly busy schedule.
Instead of allowing the usual feelings of tension weigh down on you this month, here are some tips on tackling the added stresses that the holidays bring, helping you to handle the season easier, and allowing you to be able to fully enjoy the festivities too –
1~ Make Lists. Make a list of all of the things that you have to do this season. Writing things down will help you to see if many of your plans are just added extras that you may be able to eliminate this year. Some extras could possibly include fixing a huge meal that you could instead have catered to help relieve some stress.
2~ Stop Being a Perfectionist. While you may be working over 40-hours a week, caring for your children and trying to decorate your house to look like something out of a magazine, it may be time to realize that it’s okay if you only achieve a cozy Christmas look. Those homes featured publicly are normally achieved by professional decorators, or those women that stay-at-home and have extra time. Don’t try to over achieve, causing added stress. Instead decorate with your family, creating lasting memories.
3~ Take Time Out. Although you may still have dozens of gifts to purchase and wrap, and your boss has asked you to stay late several days at work, it’s still important to take some quiet time for yourself. Stop for a much needed cup of coffee, or allow yourself an hour for a body massage. Taking some down time will allow you to recharge, feeling better about all that you still have to accomplish.
4~ Get Rest. Don’t shortchange yourself sleep. Even if you feel like wrapping presents until midnight, remember that you wont get much accomplished the next morning if you’re exhausted. Keep your normal bedtime routine, trying to get close to eight-hours of shut eye per night.
5~ Squeeze in Exercise. With a constantly busy schedule, often the first thing forgotten is a regular exercise routine. If you don’t have time to frequent the gym this time of year, try to at least get in a brisk walk during lunch breaks. Exercise is an excellent stress reliever that opens the mind.
6~ Learn to Say No. There is no doubt that this is the busiest time of year, full of obligations. Don’t feel that you have to accept every party invitation. All schools, offices, churches and after school clubs will most likely be hosting some sort of festivity this season. Know the events that are most important to you and your family members and don’t feel bad if you have to decline a couple offers.
7~ Buy Extras. There are always those last minute invitations that come in, or you remember someone that you wanted to purchase a small gift for and forgot – leaving you once again scrambling to find something at the last minute. This year, before the stores are picked over, buy a few small gifts in bulk. Instead of buying one bottle of wine, or holiday scented candle, purchase a whole box, with special gift bags. This way you are prepared with extra hostess or small gifts in case the sudden need arrises.
There are still going to be ‘trying’ moments this holiday season, but by following these tips and remembering to take care of yourself, you will be able to handle this busy time and even enjoy the magic that the holiday season brings.
