Stress is the worst! Especially around the holidays. Here are some tips to keep the joy alive during this special time of year.

Be Realistic

Often, we tend to overcommit ourselves during the hustle and bustle surrounding the holidays. But it’s important to be realistic about your commitments. Learn to say no. It’s all right to not commit to everything. Plan ahead and choose which specific events will mean the most to you and your family, and only commit to participating in these. Set time aside for yourself and follow through with your usual eating and exercise habits. It will help keep you grounded.

Set A Budget

Many people feel pressure to overspend on gifts. A lot of this pressure comes from the media and the constant barrage of ads and plot lines that instill in us a belief that the amount of gifts we buy or the amount of money we spend during this time of year is representative of how much we care for our friends and family members. But most of the time a personal gift means much more than anything you could buy. Take the time to construct a budget, stick to it, and put your focus on what would matter most to the people you care about.

Volunteer

It’s a common occurrence that we become so wrapped up in the things that directly influence us that we lose sight of what’s truly important in life. Set aside time to express gratitude for all that you have, show compassion for your fellow human beings and volunteer with a local charity. Soon, you’ll feel all your stress melting away like ice in the spring.

The holidays are supposed to be the happiest time of the year. Don’t let them turn into a season you dread. These simple tips and tricks are sure to keep you as jolly as the fat man himself. 

Here’s to a happy holiday season!