The holidays come with joy and excitement, but they also come with frustration, expectations, and stress. Visiting family can be special, and it can also create lots of tension, especially if not all of your family gets along very well. Most people feel the weight of stress that tends to crop up around the holidays, despite it being a time of year that they always look forward to. If you’re like most, here’s how to enjoy the holidays this year, despite the stress this time of year may entail!
Table of Contents
Get Your Shopping Done Early
You can avoid the hustle and bustle of the crowds by getting your holiday shopping done early. If you take care of gifts, candy cane ornaments, and stocking stuffers for everyone on your list before the holiday shopping season starts, you may find it easier and more cost effective to have everything ready in time.
This way, you won’t have to worry about late arrivals on Christmas pajamas or run into things being out of stock. Take advantage of the opportunity to beat the clock and get your shopping done early!
Limit Your Time With Family
If spending time with family can be stressful around the holidays, limit your time visiting relatives. You can enjoy seeing friends and family members without devoting all of your time to them.
You’re allowed to enjoy the holiday season just as much as they are, so when it’s time to go, don’t feel guilty for driving away! Cherish the time with your family and spend your holidays with those you want to be around, even if that means just you and your dog! And don’t allow yourself to give in to the pressure of making time for everyone. This can help you enjoy the quality time you get with loved ones without feeling rushed off to the next social gathering.
Don’t Go Overboard
A lot of people try to compensate for the stress of the rest of the year by making the holidays special. This is not an effective strategy because as wonderful as gifts and time off from work is, they don’t make up for longstanding family conflict. Don’t go overboard with the expectations this year. Enjoy the holidays but take everything as it is. Appreciate the simple things and make the most of the holidays for you.
Enjoy Holiday Treats
Enjoy the holidays this year by indulging in your favorite holiday treats. Sip some hot chocolate and enjoy homemade dinners. Save your turkey leftovers for Thanksgiving sandwiches! Try out a new cookie recipe and bake some memories with your family.
Food is fuel, and it’s also a source of comfort and connection around the holidays. Get together with your family and make some memories in the kitchen this holiday season.
Attend Holiday Parties
Don’t be a Grinch! If you’ve been invited to holiday parties, enjoy the holidays this year and socialize with others at their holiday homes. You might end up having a blast! Get out of your comfort zone a little bit and try talking with new people.
The holidays are about connection, and socializing at holiday parties is a great way to form new friendships! If you can, take a date to holiday parties, so you have someone to keep you company.
Get Cozy With Layers
Stay warm this season by cozying up your favorite layered looks. Wear a silly holiday sweater and leggings, and your furry boots! A big part of enjoying the holidays is getting the clothes you need to stay warm and toasty! Is there a knitter in the family? Have them knit scarves and mittens for everyone to make warm winterwear extra special.
The Bottom Line
Enjoy the holidays this year by accepting the good and the bad and making the most of it. There are so many ways to make the holidays special. Consider the suggestions above and prepare for a great holiday season.