7 Tips to Minimize Holiday Stress

How do you minimize holiday stress? When you review your holiday preparations to-do list, do you get excited or do you get overwhelmed?

Download: Holiday Memories: The Stress-Free Way

Year after year, statistics and surveys show that the holiday season is not enjoyable for many adults.

The American Psychological Association found that 38% of people say their stress level increases during the holidays.

During the holidays up to 69% of people are stressed by the time needed to prepare, 69% are stressed by the additional expenses, and 51% are stressed out about the pressure of gift giving and even the thought of receiving gifts.

The holidays are a time that we make commitments to attend parties, contribute to potlucks, and all of it means money. A survey by VitalSmarts says that 25% of people say they have taken on more than they can handle during the holidays.

Below are some tips for you to follow in order to keep yourself organized and prepared so you can minimize holiday stress and enjoy this time of year.

Tip #1: Keep it Simple.

Do less and enjoy more. Stick to your daily routine as much as possible.

Tip #2: Be Realistic.

Try not to put pressure on yourself to create the perfect holiday for your family. Focus instead on the traditions that make holidays special for you. And remember that just because it’s a holiday, family problems don’t go away. If you have a hard time being around your relatives, it’s okay to set limits on your time at events and visits.

Tip #3: Know Your Spending Limit.

Lack of money is one of the biggest causes of stress during the holiday season. This year, set a budget and don’t spend more than you’ve planned. It’s okay to tell your child that a certain toy costs too much. Don’t buy gifts that you’ll spend the rest of the year trying to pay off.

Tip #4: Give Something Personal.

You can show love and caring with any gift that is meaningful and personal. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. Or use words instead of an expensive gift to let people know how important they are to you. Make a phone call or write a note to share your feelings of gratitude.

Tip #5: Share the Tasks.

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Share your to-do list with others. Spend time with friends and family while you share tasks like decorating, wrapping gifts, and preparing the holiday meal.

Tip #6: Learn to Say No.

It’s okay to say “no” to events that aren’t important to you. This will give you more time to say “yes” to events that you do want to attend.

Tip #7: Get Organized.

Make lists or use an appointment book to keep track of tasks to do and events to attend.

In summary, this is a time to enjoy friends and family, so make a plan minimize holiday stress and maximize your enjoyment!

If you would like more tips to dig up the root causes of stress during the holidays or anytime, book a 1-on-1 conversation with me here and we’ll get to the bottom of what’s causing you the most trouble. Read testimonials from other satisfied clients.