It’s interesting that arguably the most magical time of the year has turned into a cause of stress for many of us who celebrate. I wanted to create 5 tips on how you can avoid holiday stress and anxiety, as believe it or not, it’s possible! Let’s start before Santa comes, shall we?
1. Make a list of priorities to avoid holiday stress
If you can do every seasonal activity that exists under the sun and it truly makes you happy, then go for it. But many of us get overwhelmed and at times frustrated with ourselves that we can’t do it all. Let’s be honest, it’s a lot!
I would recommend taking out your planner and making a list of activities/tasks you want/need to do this season. And let me tell you, this list should not be extensive. If anything, it should be very minimal. For my perfectionists out there, remember, more doesn’t always mean better. If you give your all to a smaller list of tasks, there is a chance those few things will bring you more satisfaction as they will be done well!
Therapist’s tip: Choose activities that are meaningful to YOU. Don’t compare yourself to influencers on social media and understand your limitations when it comes down to time, finances, etc. Make this season peaceful for yourself and those around you by only doing what’s important.
2. Prioritize self-care to avoid holiday stress
I don’t think there is a post on this site that doesn’t mention self-care in one way or another. It’s because I truly believe that it’s important, especially when we are talking about avoiding stress. During the holiday season, you will most likely be incredibly busy, so chances are the person you will start neglecting, is you. This post is a reminder: please, please, please take care of yourself! Only when we take good care of ourselves we will be able to show up for others. Instead of ignoring your needs, focus on them.
Therapist’s tip: continue to eat well, exercise, and practice mindfulness during this holiday season. Self-care acts as stress prevention and will help you to have the energy you need to do everything you planned.
3. Create a separate budget and stick to it
Finances are a sensitive topic for many, especially during the holiday season. Create a separate budget for gifts, decorations, and Thanksgiving/Christmas meals, and stick to it.
Don’t allow yourself to overspend and be mindful of what it is that you actually need.
Therapist’s tip: try to invest your time in activities that don’t cost money or at least are not too expensive. You could do some DIY Christmas cards that will not only be very appreciated by your friends and family but will also be therapeutic for you (if you enjoy doing that sort of thing, of course).
4. Start working on your boundaries to avoid holiday stress
Holidays is the time to spend with family, but not everyone is excited about that. As we transition into the festive period, remind yourself that you don’t need to go places you don’t want to go and interact with people you have been trying to avoid all year long. Save yourself some energy and learn to say no! If you are a people pleaser in your family, it’s a perfect time to practice setting and holding your boundaries.
Therapist’s tip: if you are struggling with holding your boundaries, it’s not too late to speak with your therapist. They will guide you in this journey and, hopefully, will help to make this process smoother.
5. Buy presents and come up with the menu as early as possible
It’s already November, so it’s not super early. Start preparing the menu and buying/packing gifts now, if that’s something you will do. Being prepared will help you to feel less stressed.
Therapist’s tip: simplify your list. Again, focus on what’s important for you and leave the rest behind. If you do the hardest tasks in November, you will be able to enjoy December in all its glory!
So, here are my 5 tips on how to avoid stress this holiday season. I didn’t want to make it a “survival guide” as it sets a negative tone for the holidays. We don’t need to survive if we can thrive! I do hope that with the right coping skills and some planning, you will be able to enjoy this time. It’s up to you, whether it will be special or stressful.
~ Tren
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