For many people, the “most lovely time of the year” can rapidly morph into the “most stressful period of the year.” Typical holiday stressors, when combined with a mental condition, can trigger an optimal tornado of heightened stressors, illnesses, and difficulties if not managed effectively.” During the holiday periods, there are potential dangers at every turn.
These circumstances can exacerbate the symptoms of people who suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other psychological disorders. Holiday stress factors can also include complex and challenging family dynamics at family functions, grief over the loss of a loved one, or simply trying to live up to unrealistic expectations of the “ideal holiday.”
According to LifeHack, “Are your holidays filled with relaxation and quality time with family or are you resorting to drinking a little too much eggnog to make it through?. If you are, you are not alone. 90% of Americans who completed a survey indicated that they feel stress during the holidays, and 24 per cent experience difficulty with family members.”
While the festive season is filled with joy, the sheer number of activities and errands that You must complete to be prepared for the festivities can be hectic. But don’t fret; there are a few things you can do to ensure that your holiday season is packed with nothing but delight and pleasure. Here are 6 tips for a stress-free holiday season:
1 – Plan and Create a Working Holiday Schedule
To begin, make a holiday schedule if you intend to have a stress-free holiday season. Having a plan allows you to organize everything you have to do so you aren’t caught off guard when the holidays arrive.
Whatever events you’ll be expected to participate, as well as activities like gift shopping, cooking, and anything else you need to do to get ready for the holidays, should be on your schedule. Instead of putting these activities off until the last moment, add them to your holiday schedule weeks ahead of time.
2 – Learn How to Say “No” in a Polite Manner
You’ll almost certainly be inundated with solicitations from friends, relatives, and others during the holiday season. For example, you’ll receive numerous email newsletters touting holiday sales, as well as multiple invitations to holiday parties and events—you may even be asked to assist in the planning and setup of these festivities. However, because the festive season is such a hectic time of year, you must learn to say “no.”
3 – Define and Adhere to a Budget
Worrying about money is one of the most stressful aspects of the holiday season. It’s best to create a budget that is realistic and leaves some room for unforeseen costs. There are several ways to spread a Holiday budget, like creating Homemade gifts or offering the assistance of an experience instead of “things.
4 – Solicit Assistance and Delegate Responsibilities
This is especially true if you’re the one throwing the party. If you ask, I’m sure your friends and family will come to your aid.
Create incentives for people to come over and help, such as free pre-party treats. Usually, nothing works better than offering “free pizza” to anyone who wants to help out! It always works perfectly.
5 – Set Aside Time for Yourself
In addition to missing out on some holiday parties, it’s essential to create time for oneself during the holiday period. Believe me; if you skip the holiday party, you won’t have FOMO if you use that time to chill and replenish by doing something you relish.
6 – Practice Gratitude
During the hectic holiday season, it’s easy to become engrossed in various stressful problems, whether it’s money worries or family disputes. However, if you want to enjoy a stress-free holiday with your family members, you must remember to be grateful.
