A little positive thinking can go a long way in helping you to enjoy the holidays this year instead of agonizing over all the little details. These 6 tips for a stress-free holiday season will start you off on the right foot.
1. Plan ahead . Print out return address labels for cards, update your address book, update your address book, make room in your front hall closet for guest coats instead of piling them on a bed like usual, and prepare guest rooms ahead of time. Tackling a few of these tasks before you get really busy can make a world of difference.
2. Rethink your gift giving Cut down on the mad shopping rush and stress of finding exactly what everyone wants this year - considering giving experiences instead of material gifts, and maybe even implement The Four Gift Rule. My extreme-gift-giving mom is actually trying it this year. Thanks, Mom!
3. Keep things simple with food and décor Please do not belts yourself for nothing matching napkins and candleholders! Focus more on the family and friends you are gathering with rather than stressing over too many fussy preparations.
4. Have a few extra gifts on hand A small stash of thoughtfully wrapped gifts is perfect for unannounced friends or last - minute invites. Think locally - made condiments, soy candles , handmade chocolates, wine and preserves.
5. Be choosy when it comes to events Only accept invitations to gatherings that are pertinent to the holiday and meaningful to your family. When planning your own event, keep it small and intimate with just a few Christmas open house but after a few years, we realized it was too chaotic as we spent most of our time greeting and seeing friends out, refilling glasses and snack bowls, and making sure little ones. Choose to host big parties at a different time of the year, when there is is going on and you are not so taxed.
6. Live in the now Do not worry about what & # 39; s still on your to-do list (there & # 39; s always something) as you trim the tree or make cookies with your kids, Also, carve out some time to do something just for you - take a walk, read your book, have a hot bath - it will go a long way in helping you to keep your sanity during the holidays.
