We would love to know you were here. Leave a comment on a post that grabs your attention or send an e-mail using the contact form.
T’is the Season for Stress
I was out the other day putting the finishing touches on my preparations for Christmas this year. I found myself spending some time observing Moms and Dads and sometimes their kids shopping, waiting in line, or any one of several other activities that it seems everyone has to do prior to Christmas festivities…
There was a common theme that was rather disappointing… very few people were smiling or enjoying themselves.
There’s no doubt that the time of year adds unnecessary stresses to everyone’s already hectic schedules but there are several things you can do to prevent stress from getting the best of you at this time of year…
- Put perfection behind you – Everyone wants the holiday season to be perfect…from striving to achieve a perfect reaction from your spouse or children to a gift you purchased to desiring the perfect feast and family get together, the perfect gift wrapping and decorations, etc. Accept that you may not be able to achieve perfection in every aspect of your holiday season.
- Set yours plans for visiting family and friends in accordance with your priorities – There’s nothing quite as stressful as trying to be in 4 or 5 places (Mom’s place, Dad’s place, Granparent’s places, etc…) all at once. Set your priorities for family visits with family and friends in accordance with YOUR priorities not those of your Great Aunt! Consider alternating between your’s and your significant other’s families yearly and leave yourself the time to truly enjoy these opportunities – especially if visiting these families requires any significant travel requirements.
- For those last minute items, plan before you shop – It’s natural to forget an item or have to make a trip to pick up a few things at the last minute. Make a list and plan where and what you will buy before you hop in the car and head to the mall.
- Take a moment to enjoy the moment – The stress caused by hectic schedules and season related to-do lists can be relieved by simply taking a moment to breathe and enjoy the wonderful around you! Take a moment to remember why you celebrate this time of year.
How do you handle seasonal stresses?
