There is not a time I love more than the holidays!  Thanksgiving is time for eating and sharing with family, while for Christmas, we celebrate the birth of our Savior.  Even for those who aren’t Christians, Christmas is a special time off work and with family and friends.  Regardless of how you spend your holidays, it’s usually a pleasurable, fun-to-anticipate time….except when it isn’t!!  Unfortunately, we usually have 15 parties to attend, kids’ programs to see, church activities to be a part of, shopping to do, all the while keeping up with the normal hustle and bustle of everyday life.  Thus, if you struggle with work stress anyway, bringing on this much extra activity can be quite debilitating.

Here are 4 simple tips for avoiding holiday stress this year- even for the next few weeks as you’re tying up loose ends!!

4 Tips for Avoiding Holiday Stress

1. Make lists and prioritize daily.  Make a to-do list of activities you must compete for the holidays.  This list should be specific and date oriented. For example, instead of listing “get for the Christmas party at my house”, break down each aspect of your party with a target date for completion.  The more specific your tasks, the better. Making a general list sets you up to leave something out. Always set the dates early so you’re not in a frenzy to get the task complete.  Review and update your list on a daily basis.
2. Shop online.  A lot of time is spent driving all over town as you shop.  Make your shopping list early.  Almost anything on your list can be found online. Sit down one evening, take your list, get focused only on shopping, and begin. You’ll be amazed just how much shopping you can get done in only one evening.
3. Make time for yourself. Even if it is only one or two hours per week, take time for yourself.  Make a list of things you’d like to do that relax and refresh you. Read a book.  Get a massage. Watch a movie.  Whatever it takes to clear your mind and refresh you… do it!  You’ll be rewarded with more energy and a peaceful attitude.
4. Don’t over-commit.  During the holiday season there are lots of things to do and many organizations and groups clamoring for your time. Choose your activities wisely and commit only to the ones you consider most important. Otherwise you’ll be anxious for the holidays to be over so you can get some rest.

Work stress is enough- adding holiday stress is too much!  To avoid stress this year, follow these four simple tips.

Filed under: Category Uncategorized | Tags: Christmas,holidays,stress,Tips by emily