5 Ways to Minimize Stress in the Holiday Season
The days seem to literally have fewer hours as we hurtle towards the end of the calendar year. If you or your clients are feeling the pressure that comes with the holiday season, you’re not alone. But there are some ways to help mitigate the stress of the next couple months. Here are 5 tips to help out.
1. Practice saying no
One sure way to overextend yourself is to say yes to every invitation for a gathering, party or lunch date. The only way to be able to wholeheartedly say yes to the events you want to attend is to say no to many others. Practice saying no early and frequently to preserve your energy and time for the gatherings, events and meetings that are your priorities.
2. Stay organized
To help with the holiday hustle and bustle, stay organized. For example, plan meals ahead of time and prep as much as possible. Also order take-out whenever you are feeling strapped for time. Try to stay organized with your errands and shopping. Plan to go early or during less busy hours if possible. Don’t save it all for the last second when everywhere is busy and frantic.
3. Set boundaries
Plan to have a chat with family or friends who you are visiting or who you are hosting this year. Set any necessary boundaries for the time spent together. Perhaps there are new dietary restrictions or you can’t stay for as long as other years. Whatever the boundaries and expectations, set them before you all arrive. It might not mean everything goes smoothly, but at least the expectations were clearly set.
4. Take the time off work
If at all possible with your job situation, take the PTO you need to be with family and friends, especially if the holidays are a special time for you. If you have the PTO, it’s ok to use it. This will also help prevent you from overextending yourself and getting burnt out this year.
5. Stick to your budget
It’s so easy to blow a budget during the holiday months. There are marketing pushes from every side to spend more. Kids or grandkids might want more presents this year. Perhaps you want to splurge on a new outdoor light show for the house, or purchase the most expensive wines to impress your boss at your holiday gathering. Whatever the reasons, there will be temptations to blow the budget. Try to stick with what you can afford. Your future self will thank you and will be far less stressed come January.
These are just a few strategies to help minimize holiday stress. This way you can truly enjoy what you love about the season and its festivities.