Christmas is everyone's favorite time of year. But is it? Are we all trying to live up to unrealistic expectations and feel disappointed if it doesn't go as planned? Here are some tips to avoid getting stressed and start to enjoy the countdown to Christmas.
Be realistic
Decide what is important to put you in the Christmas spirit and what is not. Do only what you want. Say no to everything else. It is also a great idea to help the children be realistic. And so what if we don't have snow, if some relative couldn't come, or if we didn't have time to do a certain activity. It will still be Christmas.
Almost every year I find myself decorating the tree by myself. So instead of getting angry or dissapointed over the kids or the husband not joining me, I have decided to have fun by myself. Put on some music, have a glass of wine and play some music.
Maybe you could make a list of what drives you crazy at Christmas and try to make a plan to do something different this year?
Learn to say no
I say no to almost everything that comes my way in december, unless it is on my "want to do" list. And that is usually activities with my closest family and friends. Don´t feel like you have to make any excuses. Your time is yours.
Take a break
Splash out on a spa day with a friend. Take a walk. Have a bath. Go for a manicure, to the hairdresser, or simply apply a facemask. Make a plan to not have a plan and take care of yourself.
Start early
I know I say this every year, but this is your chance to start early. Buy gifts online and wrap them the minute they arrive.
Make a budget
Many of us spend far more than we need on Christmas, and it makes you have that little guilty feeling at the back of your mind. Start buying gifts early to spread the spending so you don't have to pay for everything in December.
Avoid malls right before Christmas
Unless you just want to walk around, have a coffee and check out the decorations. If you have left the shopping till then, you will be faced with massive queues, angry people that use their trolley as a weapon and screaming kids. If you HAVE to find some last minute gifts, try going at times when there will be less people, like on a friday or saturday night.
Delegate
If you have loads on your to do list, make sure to get everybody involved. Ask people to help you instead of getting grumpy because of all you have to do.
Let it go
Don't bottle up your stress and carry it around. How about going somewhere private and just let off steam. Yell, dance, sing out loud or even meditate.
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