The holiday season is upon us once again! It is a time of year that is synonymous with joy, love, and happiness. However, for many people, the holidays can also be incredibly stressful. Fortunately, there are a number of tips and strategies that can help you to have a stress-free holiday season. Below, we’ve spoken to experts in the field to gather some of the best advice.
Plan ahead
One major source of stress during the holidays comes from feeling like there is too much to do and not enough time to do it all. To combat this, start planning early. Whether it is buying gifts ahead of time or making a list of tasks that need to be completed, having a plan can make all the difference. According to Dr. Susan Albers, a clinical psychologist who specializes in eating disorders, “A plan reduces anxiety because it ensures that everything is under control.”
Delegate tasks
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything yourself. Assign tasks to family members or friends and allow them to help out. This not only takes some of the pressure off of you, but it can also foster a sense of community and togetherness. According to Dr. Marlynn Wei, a psychiatrist and author of The Harvard Guide to Yoga, “Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.”
Set boundaries
The holidays can be a time when expectations run high. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to say no to things that don’t bring you joy or add to your stress. According to Dr. Wei, “Setting boundaries is essential to maintaining balance and preventing burnout.” So, if you are feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to say no to an invitation or event.
Practice self-care
It’s easy to overlook our own needs during the holiday season, but taking care of your own well-being is essential to having a stress-free holiday. Make time for yourself by engaging in activities that you enjoy, such as reading a book or taking a walk. Additionally, make sure to get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, and exercise regularly. As Dr. Albers explains, “Self-care is not selfish. It’s essential to taking care of other people and responsibilities.”
Manage expectations
The media often depicts the holidays as a time of perfection, but the reality is that things don’t always go as planned. Recognize that the holidays are not going to be perfect, and that’s okay. Dr. Wei recommends, “Make a list of what is and isn’t important to you during the holidays. This can help you prioritize and manage your expectations.”
Embrace imperfection
Similarly, it’s important to embrace imperfection. Remember that mistakes happen, and that’s part of the human experience. Dr. Albers suggests, “Allow room for error and forgiveness. This helps to minimize stress around the holiday season.”
In conclusion, the holidays can be a stressful time, but there are plenty of strategies that can help you to have a stress-free season. By planning ahead, delegating tasks, setting boundaries, practicing self-care, managing expectations, and embracing imperfection, you can navigate the holidays with ease. Remember to take care of yourself and enjoy the holiday season!