It’s that time of year again where you are getting the holiday decorations out and you’ll have to start that holiday shopping list. If you’re looking at all of that and thinking that you just want to run away instead, you aren’t alone! Don’t run away quite yet, though, as there are tips to be able to deal effectively with holiday stress so that you can actually enjoy the holidays like you are meant to. Take a look at how to make the most out of the holiday season.
Keep your loved ones close:
Remember that the holiday season is all about spending time with the people that you love. This means that you are going to be able to get a lot more out of your holiday season if you just spend more time with your loved ones. Bring the kids home, haul out the spare beds for your extended family or friends. Pull close the ones who matter the most to you, this is an instant stress reliever.Do things that matter to you
Make sure that you do something in the holiday season that really matters to you. For example, if your favorite thing about the holiday season is curling up in front of a fire and watching holiday movies, make time for that as much as possible. Or, if you are someone who loves to spend time skiing or out in the snow, make time for that. The point is to make sure that you are doing things that you actually want to do during this time of year. If you find that cooking a big dinner stresses you out, then ask someone else to do it, or at least to help you so that it’s a better and happier activity.Understand what everyone else wants to do:
When you have your family and friends close, you want to make sure that they’re enjoying themselves too, so get an idea as to what they’re hoping to accomplish during the season. Make a fun, but manageable, schedule full of all of the most important things so that everyone gets the chance to do the things that matter the most to them. This is a great stress buster and you’ll also be able to see that everyone is enjoying themselves, too, which will boost your mood!Stick to a strict budget:
Stress around the holidays is often linked to the amount of money that is spent, so to help take a weight off your mind, pick a number that you can comfortably afford in terms of financial implications, and be very strict with yourself (and others) to stay within it. Figure out your number and divide it into categories like presents, food, activities, and charity. Make sure you are on the same page with others in your house. If you are an over spender, consider purchasing a prepaid gift card or using cash with the set amount you allotted. This way when the money is gone, it is gone!Try to bring a charity into your holiday plans:
It can be a great calming factor to know you are doing your part to help others during the holiday season. You’ll feel great about it, and they will appreciate your support, however you wish to give it!Saying “No” is a healthy thing:
Remember that you can say no when you need to. Some people feel pressure to give their time, money and resources beyond what works for them. If you are over-doing it, then remember to set limits. For some people, this means saying no to attending one more gathering. For others, this means spending less time decorating, cleaning, or cooking. Take an inventory of the things you do during the holidays that lift you up, and the things that drag you down. Try saying “No” to some of the things that drag you down.Ask a professional for tips and help:
Professionals are always available to help you beat the stress during the holiday season, so consider reaching out to someone to give you some tips and help on how to keep the stress manageable so that your time is full of all of the positives that it should be, and none of the negatives.Pivotal Counseling Center has therapists with a variety of specialties, including family dynamics. We have locations in Woodstock, Illinois, and Lake in the Hills, Illinois. If you are in need of someone to help, please consider giving us a call at (815) 345-3400.
