Despite Christmas being one of the most festive and celebrated events, it can also be considered as the most stressful one. The excessive decorating, the endless cooking and gift shopping can get incredibly overwhelming. But isn’t this meant to be a time of rest and celebration with your family? Below I will list a few tips which may help you both prepare and enjoy your well-deserved vacation to the fullest!
Tip 1: One of the biggest stress factors during the Christmas period is presents. All your children and/or grandchildren may be listing the things that they would like to find under the Christmas tree and at times you may feel overpowered.
Of course, gifts require money and often quite a bit. If you have a stable income then you might be able to afford that PS5, however, not everyone is in that financial situation.
There is no shame in buying something second-hand. Thrift stores can be great places to discover all kinds of creative objects for a lower price. They might even inspire you in case you are unsure about what to buy.
You should also keep in mind that people appreciate personal gifts more. This means that perhaps you could even prepare something at home, be that a painting, a poem or someone’s favorite cake. At the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts and the person receiving the gift may be more overwhelmed with joy by unwrapping their favorite book (which may be used) as opposed to another gadget with education technology insights.
Tip 2: Make lists. Despite Christmas only lasting a day or two, people start preparing and panicking way earlier. And if you think about it, it is understandable. There are so many things to keep in mind: the gifts, the food, your niece’s food allergy, the decoration, and many more.
By writing everything down on a piece of paper, you could complete your tasks more efficiently, which would also reduce the pressure that you are feeling from the limited time.
Tip 3: Start preparing early. If you are aware that you would be stressed, then maybe start the shopping a few weeks prior. Last-minute Christmas shopping in a crowded mall, packed with other irritated last-minute shoppers is not something you want to experience before a family celebration.
By starting preparations earlier, you also have more time to carefully consider what you want to buy or make. You probably will also have a wider range of things to choose from and might also find a bargain, or two at the store.
Tip 4: Ask for help. There is no reason why you should be the only person working on creating an enjoyable and memorable Christmas. Feel free to ask your partner, children or friends to complete certain tasks such as accompanying you to the shops or decorating the house while you are cooking.
Tip 5: Consider the preparation as a fun activity as opposed to a duty. Having a calm mindset is also very important when you are looking at your endless festive to-do-list.
Instead of viewing baking as a burden and something that has a high stake, try to see it as a relaxing activity that you can do even with your family. At the end of the day, they are just cookies, and even if you accidentally burn them, everyone will simply have a good laugh.
Tip 6: Be patient. Initially, this may feel impossible, however, once you see that everyone is in the same crazed, Christmas state you will no longer feel behind and that you have to rush. It’s not a competition.
Remaining calm is a good skill to have and might also contribute to you learning how to succeed at a new job.
Tip 7: Be inclusive. This is an opportunity for your relatives, friends, and family to bond. Don’t forget that apart from being a religious holiday, Christmas is also a celebration of the family; don’t let it go to waste.
Tip 8: Help others. Sadly, not everyone has the opportunity to have Christmas. Due to this, it’s important to consider those that are in need and to help as much as we can.
These sincere actions include projects such as the Shoebox Appeal which revolves around collecting essentials and gifts which will then be put into a shoebox and given to someone in need.
Apart from volunteering, you could also invite a friend over who would spend Christmas alone otherwise or donate warm clothing and portions of food to the homeless.
Every little helps and by contributing to a greater cause you will not only help others but could also encourage other people to do something similar.
Tip 9: Be grateful for what you have and accept the present. Often we strive to achieve perfection, however, that’s somewhat impossible and perhaps for a reason. Just lay back and enjoy the Christmas music, the shining lights, and the company of others whilst you still can.
