How to Manage Holiday Stress
What’s supposed to be “the most wonderful time of the year” can feel like the worst time of the year because of the holiday stress: buying gifts for everyone; planning, buying and cooking the meal; making sure everyone is on time and well-dressed; and interacting with relatives that may ask too many personal questions. But, instead of seeing the stressors, think about why it’s called “the most wonderful time of the year.” Learn how to enjoy the holidays instead of stress, below.
You may be stressed for a number of reasons during the holiday season but think about how lonely you’d feel without your family, how grateful you should be to have a warm meal, and how nice it can be to get away and travel back home. Don’t think about the laundry list of things you have to get done; think about how grateful you should be for everything and everyone you have.
Whether you’re making the meal or in charge of buying multiple family members gifts, ask for help. For example, you can ask your other family members to bring a dish so you aren’t making the entire meal or have it catered. Ask for the gifts, ask your partner to help you pick out, sort and wrap gifts, so you aren’t burdened with too much responsibility.
When buying gifts, set a budget based on what you’re financially comfortable with so you aren’t financially burdened after the holiday season. Finding the right gift for everyone may be important to you, but you can’t go into financial debt over spending more than you have saved. By being financially responsible, you’re setting a budget that helps you in the long-run, as well as makes sure you’re being fair in your spending.
By buying your presents, plane tickets and/or food in a timely manner, your stress will decrease. Last-minute planning and buying can cause unnecessary stress for you and your budget.
No matter the stressors in your life, think about the purpose of the holiday season – to be thankful for what you have and spend time with your loved ones. Find comfort in your religion, family and friends. Life can change in an instant, but it’s times like these when you can experience the true love and happiness that family brings you.
