Shopping, cooking, entertaining, oh my! The holidays can be a stressful time, and it's no wonder there is a term for the “Holiday Blues.” There is stress from work, as all of your clients and business partners want their tasks completed before the end of the year. Then there are the holiday parties, which might claim to be optional yet are functionally obligatory. Though you might be pressed for time your absence could be bad for business. On top of these time constraints there is financial stress as well, and no one wants to start a new year in the financial doldrums. Here are a few simple tips on how to brighten your holiday season and have a stress free holiday:
- Stick to a budget: If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it. Do not attempt to buy happiness at the mall. Allot a dollar amount to each person you intend to give to and stick to it. Don't be fooled by every sales price, shop based on the true value of the product, not just the discount.
- Plan ahead: To prevent the headaches of last-minute scrambling, set aside specific days for activities such as shopping, cooking, finishing up a work assignment or visiting that friend across town. A little bit of organization goes a long way.
- Stay healthy: Cookies, cakes and candies are everywhere we turn during the holiday season. Still, this is no reason to abandon sleep or physical activity. Overindulgence and/or lack of exercise will only add to your stress and anxiety.
- Give yourself a break: Holidays are about giving to others, but add yourself to that list as well. Create time to do the things you love to do, and don't lose your own well-being in these hectic times.
- Learn to say no: Hopefully friends and colleagues can understand that you can’t participate in every project. Saying yes when you should say no can lead to feeling overwhelmed, and that stress can impact other areas of your life. There will be plenty of time after the new year to get things done.
With so many stresses and distractions, it's easy to see your holiday cheer derailed. Taking time to reflect, relax, and be thankful of your loved ones can go a long way to making sure your holiday is everything you hoped it would be.
