Creating a Stress Free Holiday Season

The holiday season is a great time to reconnect with loved ones, take a break from work, and refocus on what really matters just in time for the new year.  Unfortunately the holidays can also create significant stress due to loaded schedules, financial burdens, and conflicts with family.  So how do you make the most of the holidays while not getting stuck in a cycle of stress?

Firstly, take note of your expectations and the expectations of those important to you around the holiday season.  Is it really necessary to follow every holiday tradition to the letter if it places an undue burden on yourself or others?  Can you find joy in the holiday season without everything having to be just so?  The answer is yes, and if the biggest turkey, tallest tree, or most expensive present will cause more stress than value, re-examine and shift your expectations.  Everything doesn’t have to look perfect, taste perfect, or be timed perfectly to create a wonderful experience.  Go easy on yourself and those around you.

Secondly, it’s ok to say no to your loved ones.  You don’t have to spend every holiday with every family member, and you can also set boundaries around what time you do spend with them and how that time is spent.  Your loved ones may not always like your boundaries, and that’s ok too.  If you spend too much time rushing between or preparing for holiday events, you will likely be too exhausted to be as present as you’d like to be with your loved ones.  Make sure to take time for rest and relaxation to recharge for the new year during any time you may have off from work and/or school in between holiday events you’ve committed to attending.

Lastly, be mindful of your budget going into the holidays.  Winter holidays can be very expensive, and you do not need to spend beyond your means and put yourself into a hard situation moving forward just to align yourself with traditions.  Make sure that you set clear boundaries with others around your finances, so that loved ones are aware of what you may or may not be able to participate in during the holiday season.

Try to keep in mind that the true purpose of the holiday season is connection and gratitude.  Take the time this year to express gratitude towards both yourself and others and focus on enjoying time together and recuperating for the year ahead.  Happy holidays!