Ah, the holidays! An endless to-do list of cooking, cleaning, shopping, and oh yeah, "spreading holiday cheer". If you're feeling like a grinch this season due to stress, we've got just the thing! Here's our suggestions on how to keep sane this holiday season:
Stress #1: Finding the "perfect" gift
As cheesy as it sounds, when it comes to gift giving, the old saying goes: it’s the thought that counts! 🎁❤️ If you find yourself stressing over finding the perfect gift for everyone your list, take a break from shopping and spend time with family and/or friends. You'll quickly be reminded that time spent together is the greatest gift of all.
Stress #2: Gift giving on a tight budget
Avoid spending too much money by setting a budget before you begin your holiday shopping. One simple way to do this is to make a list of people you are shopping for and set a monetary value next to each name. Then, simply add up the amounts and adjust accordingly.
Stress #3: Gift giving on a REALLY tight budget
Consider giving a mix of store bought and handmade gifts or, make handmade gifts for everyone on your list. Knit scarves, bake cookies, create a memory book, or find a craft that speaks to your heart. The receiver will be overjoyed that you took the time to create something just for them and it’s a great reminder (for yourself) that it’s the thought that counts.
Stress #4: Choosing a date that works for everyone
Planning a holiday gathering can seem like a never-ending cycle of coordinating schedules only to find out that someone can’t make it. One way to make this process a bit easier is to make plans in advance. Make it a tradition to host your holiday gathering the same day and time every year. This way, guests are able to count on it being a specific day and can mark the date in their calendar months in advance.Stress #5: Preparing the holiday dinner:
If you found yourself asleep on the kitchen floor last year, you may want to simplify your holiday meal. One solution is to choose recipes that can be prepared in advance and simply popped in the oven the day of the event. Another idea is to ask everyone to bring a dish to share or, consider getting your event catered.Stress #6: Wrapping gifts:
As simple as this task seems, wrapping gifts can quickly turn into a stress-fest if you have a lot to do in a limited amount of time (*ahem* I’m talking to you, last minute shoppers!). Buy wrapping paper, extra tape, and anything else you might need in advance (and possibly in bulk) and start wrapping gifts as you purchase them. Another tip is to label each package as you go and wrap one receiver's gifts at a time, so you don’t risk the chance of getting gifts mixed up.
