Holiday Stress is a Killer

Managing Holiday Stress

1. Make a To-Do list.  Keep this list with you at all times and prioritize and update as needed.
2. Plan ahead.  If at all possible, start early on your holiday projects and shopping.  It’s November so it’s time to get started!
3. Write out your gift list.  Make time to sit down and list out gift ideas for each person on your list.  They don’t have to be specific if you can’t think of something but at least write down and interest or activity that they enjoy.  This will help when you set out to shop.
4. Shop online.  You would be hard pressed to name an item that is not available online!  You would be amazed at how much shopping you can get done in one night if you pull out your gift list, sit down at the computer, focus, and shop away.  Last year I finished mine in one night!
5. Have you kids make a To-Do list. Have your kids make a list of things they would like to do over the holiday break from school.  This should include things they can do by themselves, like reading, writing, art projects, building a model airplane, etc.  This will help to keep them off your back when you are feeling the holiday stress set in!
6. Plan Family Time. It’s easy to lose track of the true meaning of Christmas.  Make plans to spend at a couple of evenings together as a family.  Try playing games, watching a movie, or going for a long walk. You'll be amazed at what family time can do to bring you together.
7. Plan time for yourself.  Make a list of things you would like to do for yourself over the next several weeks.  Be specific and choose things that reduce stress such as getting a massage, reading a trashy novel, take an aromatherapy bubble bath or finding a local yoga class.  This is your holiday too so enjoy it!!
8. Keep snacks in the house.  If you are the kind of person that has lots of guests drop by, try to buy some non perishable snacks/drinks and hide them from your children.  That way you are always prepared for visitors.
9. Research holiday gift ideas.  If you are stuck on an idea, search the web.  There are a plethora of gift ideas.  Try typing in “top 10 gift ideas for kids” or something like that.  I found the best gifts last year by researching.  I ordered a personalized <a onClick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/article_exit_link');" href="http://www.originalsantamail.com"> Letter from Santa </a> for my daughter and she didn't set it down for days. It was only $10
10. Set a good example.  The holidays are supposed to be a time for family, friends, sharing and caring.  Despite the madness you will come in contact with during the mad rush, try to stay calm and peaceful and set a good example of what the true meaning of Christmas can do for our hearts.

Happy Holidays!!