“The kids have concerts on different nights,” I said to my husband. After a beat, I continued. “I think your parents want to come up for one of them too.” My mind spun just thinking about this snippet of a week in December. Holiday stress didn’t stop there. From classroom parties to shorter days to trying to get a good deal on presents, I’d barely touched the tip of the iceberg. So much had to get done this month!
Are you dealing with a kid’s exam week? Dreading those holiday bills? Planning a trip to a far-flung place and don’t want to pay for an extra suitcase? Let’s slow down a minute and see what we can do to handle this crazy, hectic season a little bit better. Here are 5 ways that maybe—just maybe—we’ll be able to kiss holiday stress goodbye this year.
1. Set boundaries.
My friend Jessie spends Christmas Eve with her in-laws, but she said Christmas Day is reserved just for her family of four. “I want a quiet day for our family,” she told me. “And I had to make that clear with my husband’s family. Otherwise, they’d be on our doorstep at 10 a.m. and stay all day.”
According to licensed psychotherapist Sharon Martin, “Boundaries are limits we set with ourselves, and with others.” They’re also the “key to a happy, healthy holiday season.” You’re taking care of your well-being by limiting your obligations Though you might be met with some resistance at first, Martin says that clear boundaries will eventually strengthen a relationship because of clearer communication and fewer misunderstandings.
Holiday boundaries to consider: Set a budget for presents and don’t go over. Feel OK with leaving a holiday party early or not going at all. Don’t allow guests to discuss politics.
2. Prioritize sleep for you and your family.
I couldn’t believe how much my kids slept the weekend before Christmas. Maybe it was the normal exhaustion from long school hours. But I bet the holiday concerts, exams, and school parties added to their fatigue. I, too, have been up late prepping for Christmas. So, it’s no wonder, now that we’re days away from the actual holiday, we’re all snapping at each other.
To keep holiday stress at bay, sleep needs to be a priority. Consider it a healthy boundary. Sleep will help keep everyone healthy and better able to regulate emotions, especially when stress crops up.
Holiday priority to consider: Set an alarm to either shut down screens at a certain time or to get ready for bed.
3. Get outdoors and be active.
“Time for a walk?” my husband asked. I nodded, relieved to be outside and moving. The holidays, though joyous, can bring a shortage of time and an abundance of food, expenditures, polite conversations, and obligations. Making time for exercise can help you manage holiday stress. It’s a timeout for yourself and also a healthy boundary you should prioritize at this time of year. It can also improve your mood so when you return for round two of socializing, you’ll be in a better frame of mind.
Holiday activity to consider: Getting outside for a walk is the easiest way to dial down holiday stress. But also consider fitting in your favorite activities—ice skating anyone?
4. Establish limits.
“Naomi said they’ve closed off the main road for fire pits and s’mores!” my daughter said. “Can we go into town, Mom?” My eyes started to cross. I’d planned on a quiet evening at home since we’d been out the night before. But this sounded fun. I’m sure I could summon the energy to go for an hour or so. I’d just have to put the defrosting gallon of ice cream back in the freezer.
Holiday limits to consider: If you aim to spend less, eat less, and not pack your calendar, there will be more wiggle room for last minute indulgences and invitations. But don’t be afraid to say no if you’re feeling stretched. Your health matters!
If you aim to spend less, eat less, and not pack your calendar, there will be more wiggle room for last minute indulgences and invitations. Click To Tweet5. Clarify your Christmas plans and goals with family.
“Wait. We’re gonna be in a hotel on Christmas Eve?” my son asked. “Yes,” I said. “I got the cheapest flight I could find. But it’ll be great waking up in sunny Florida!” I put on a smile and held my breath. “But what about presents?” he asked. Inside, I wanted to scream.
Holiday plans and goals: Communication is key to alleviating holiday stress. Discuss upcoming school and family obligations. Keep everyone in the loop with last-minute changes. Utilize a family calendar and keep it in a visible, highly trafficked spot. But don’t feel bad if there are bumps. Holiday stress can still happen—but hopefully to a lesser degree. Print iMOM’s free December calendar to help you stay organized!
What gives you holiday stress?
