While often touted as the most wonderful time of the year, the holiday season can be one of the most stressful for you and your family. There are ways to reduce this stress, recognize your limits and enjoy the festivities.
Simplify Your Schedule
Whether you are a family of one or ten, your schedule will likely get very crowded during the holidays. You can have work or school parties, friends and family gatherings, and the traveling and shopping involved in each of these. It is important to remember that this is your holiday, and you should focus on the activities you enjoy while cutting out the ones that you dread. You can also make suggestions for modifications to traditional gatherings to help simplify your schedule. For instance, instead of the awkward after-dinner visiting with extended family you only see once a year, suggest going to Christmas holiday light activities in Olney MD as a group.
Rethink Gifting
One of the most significant sources of stress during the holidays is gift-giving. Not only do you need to find that perfect present for everyone on your list and the half-dozen White Elephant gift parties in your schedule, but you will also need to budget everything with your monthly bills. This is one of the biggest reasons gifting experiences or forgoing exchanges is gaining popularity. It is also one of the reasons why you see fewer adult siblings giving gifts to each other and just gifting to nieces and nephews.
Set Boundaries
Knowing where your limits are and setting boundaries with loved ones who tend to push past them is not easy, but it is necessary for your health and well-being throughout the year. These boundaries can include limiting the number of gatherings and opting out of activities with a long travel time.
Reducing stress during the holidays can be easier than you think, especially if you start looking for alternatives to least-favorite activities and gatherings. When you remember your limits, set boundaries, and honor yourself, you will have a healthier season. Read more exciting articles on Tech new master