So far, tips have been shared to help battle stress, now it’s time to take a deep dive into the most troubling concerns. Battling and overcoming stress during the holidays can be a challenge to anyone. Overcommitting, gift buying, and carrying on traditions, are three of the most stressful areas that can ruin a cheerful season

There are a number of things that can lead to this type of stress: family gatherings, coping with loss, busy stores, long lines, gift buying, conflicts, add to this list.  Last month I shared useful post regarding handling conflicts during gatherings.  Later this month, I will address handling loss. You may also have high expectations that add to the stress of your holiday season.

Long gone are the days in which the season was highly anticipated and there was a sense of magic in the air. As an adult, you may find the season to be more stressful than joyous. Unfortunately, these days, you may even consider holiday stress as a necessary holiday tradition! Here are some methods you can use to battle and overcome stress during the holidays

1. Are you overcommitted? The holidays normally come with many social gatherings that most of us feel we must attend. The fact is that you don’t have to go to every event you’re invited to. Saying “no thank you” to some of the invitations will free up more time for yourself! It’s important to remember and enjoy the spirit of the holidays.

If it takes saying “no” to preserve some of your sanity, go for it! Others will be more understanding than you give them credit for. Don’t become so burdened that you secretly wish for the season to pass quickly. Take time to be by yourself. Whether you take a yoga class or a bubble bath, allow yourself to do something enjoyable without worrying about the holiday stress.

2. Carrying on traditions. Growing up, we may have seen our mothers cook a full course Christmas dinner. Perhaps it was routine to host a lavish holiday party. Maybe your family baked hundreds of Christmas cookies to give to friends and relatives. Tradition is good but don’t allow yourself to become so wrapped up in tradition that it consumes you. 

If you find the routine you normally follow for the pure and simple sake of tradition is weighing on you and resulting in more stress than you can deal with, break away from it! You will be happier. Rather than living up to the expectations of years past, start your own, easy-going traditions. Instead of throwing a lavish party, have fewer friends over for tea and cookies. Allow other family members to bring side dishes to the holiday meal rather than cooking it all yourself.

3. Finding the perfect gift. There’s too much pressure to purchase the perfect gift for each person that it takes all the fun out of shopping. Remember, people are generally appreciative for whatever gift they receive. They don’t expect you to go to every corner of the Earth to find them a spectacular gift. Save time and money by skipping the wrapping! Creativity is the main focus.

You can give gifts that can be used throughout the year. For example, you may give a coupon in a card for a free night of babysitting, one day of yard work, or other special things. Shopping online has made searching for gifts much easier. It might also be more cost effective to buy online because many stores offer special sales or free shipping near the holidays. 

I hope you agree that these very simple, yet effective habits can help giftyou overcome stress during the holidays. The key is to determine what’s causing your stress so you can eliminate it. In the end, you’ll see that most of the stress you experience is a result of the expectations you impose on yourself. 

I hope you found these three simple suggestions useful. How will you implement them this year?! Comment below, or share with your overworked and stressed out friend or relative.

To Your Success,
Juan