It’s hard to stay sane over your sprouts at this time of year. The festivities can be a financial drain, and families gathered together around an open fire can lead to feuds. So let’s reduce that blood pressure this holiday season, shall we? Today, I’m sharing my top 10 ways to reduce stress this Christmas.
Ready? Let’s go-ho-ho.
Ways to reduce stress this Christmas — SAVING TIME (& MONEY)
1. Card writing
You don’t need to write eleventy billion cards — I’m pretty sure the teacher you had in third class won’t even notice. You may still feel obliged to send one to your Aunt Sally, ‘cause you know it’s not worth the grief you’ll get if you don’t, but re-consider everyone else on your list.
My husband and I never send out holiday cards. Like, ever. And I suspect nobody thinks any less of us because of it. And if they do, nuts to them.
2. Party invitations
You don’t need to go to every single one. Pick the best and forget the rest.
3. Tone down the decorations
I’m just gonna leave that there and walk away ‘cause frankly, as far as I’m concerned, your house can never be too decorated. But not everyone’s as crazy as I, so scale back if it stresses you out.
Ways to reduce stress this Christmas — GIFT GIVING
4. Have a plan
Running out last minute to snatch armfuls of tat isn’t going to do anything positive to your stress levels. Or your bank balance. Give yourself a few minutes to sit down and really think things through. For each person on your list, write down 2 or 3 hobbies they enjoy. Now brainstorm gifts based on those interests. (For some inspiration, check out my long list of clutter-free gift ideas). Putting a bit of thought and advance planning in now saves your sanity on Christmas Eve when the shops are near closing, and it also saves your poor eyes from popping out of their sockets when the credit card bill arrives in January. Which leads me to…
5. Pay in cash if you can
It’s easy to put everything on the plastic, but cash will keep you focused on your budget and stop you throwing in a few extra toys for your kids “just because”. And don’t forget to use coupons and loyalty card points to save you a few quid too.
6. Shop around
If you have a certain item in mind, look online to see where you can get it cheaper. If you haven’t, remember that outlet stores are great places to pick up presents at reasonable prices.
7. Don’t shop for everyone
As with the cards, ditch the people who don’t mean that much to you. Don’t give gifts out of obligation if you can avoid it. If you’ve a large family, why not suggest a secret Santa set-up instead of having to buy gifts for every member? You’ll probably find that others are more than happy to jump on the only-one-gift bandwagon.
Have a few “spare” gifts on hand — like bath sets and bottles of wine — to keep yourself covered. Or for those people you haven’t spoken to in ages but who suddenly decide to show up at your door on Christmas Eve with their own gift. Dickheads.
Ways to reduce stress this Christmas — FOOD PREP
8. Buy in
Don’t try to make everything from scratch, unless you really REALLY enjoy it. There’s no harm in buying a few pre-prepared desserts from local stores. And places like Aldi and Lidl are not only cheaper, but they often do exceptionally well in taste tests, so don’t dismiss them. Whip up some custard or cream to lash over them, if you must.
9. Get everyone involved
Kids can peel, chop, mash, baste, put things into pots… Spouses can clean up. If you’re having guests for Christmas dinner, get them to pitch in too! Ask them to bring a starter or dessert. Or, at the very least, ask them to provide some plonk. Be specific about what you want. Most people will appreciate it so they’re not standing in the wine aisle for ages, wondering what to grab so they don’t arrive with their arms swinging. (There’s no such thing as a free meal, eh? 😛 )
Ways to reduce stress this Christmas — MISCELLANEOUS
10. Take a break
You’re not a machine. Recharging your batteries is important all year ‘round, but especially at times like these when your plate is full of festive obligations. One way or another, everything will get done. In 2 weeks’ time, Christmas will already be a memory, so forget the fretting and throw your feet up for a bit.
And for jaysus’ sake, don’t forget the batteries! 😛
Christmas comes but once a year, so try not to get yourself into a tizz for it. Or into debt. Advertising companies want you to believe that you need the latest (most expensive) gadget, and that you have to have the biggest, most sumptuous spread for dinner. But remember the true meaning of Christmas…
curling up in your pyjamas watching movies by the fire. 😉
Still feeling overwhelmed? Check out my 6 ways to calm down and get shit done
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