I feel like it’s expected to say that the holiday season is stressful… we all know it, we all acknowledge it, but what do we do about it?? After sharing more of my personal story with this Instagram post, I realized it was time to open up the conversation into a larger discussion — and to share ways to make the holidays less stressful. I’m talking about things that work for me and tips that are actually attainable.
How To Make The Holidays Less Stressful (Tips That Worked For Me)
Truly give up on being a perfectionist
This is at the top of the list for me because I am truly a Type A perfectionist. I love when everything is tidy, decorated, and perfect… but that SO rarely happens. As I write this, our Christmas tree is leaning slightly to the side… and I’m going to leave it like this. Honestly, the only thing that’s helped me to give up my desire for holiday perfection is the fact that I’m just too darn busy.
Self-talk is something that’s helped me a lot with this. If you struggle with the same thing, I suggest writing a mantra for yourself that you can mentally repeat when you feel like things aren’t perfect enough. For me, I tell myself that it’s ok and that whatever is ‘wrong’ won’t ruin the day. Then I go through a short list of what I’m grateful for as a way of adjusting my perspective.
On a related topic, you might enjoy these posts:
- Why I Love Gratitude Journals + How to Start Journaling
- 7 Ways to Practice Gratitude
- 5 Alternative Ways to Give Thanks
Let yourself take shortcuts
While I always tout the importance of shopping locally, there are times when you just need to order something online from a big box retailer and get on with it! We all have a million things on our to do lists… why not make the holidays less stressful by ordering a few gifts online? This holiday season, cut yourself some slack and give yourself the grace to take a shortcut.
Schedule in alone time
My personal space is hugely important to me. This is one boundary that I’ve learned not to mess with because I know just how unpleasant I can be when I don’t get my quiet time. Even if that means ‘missing out’ on drinks with friends or a party, I’m ok with that. It means that I’ll be able to actually enjoy other things, while recharging my batteries.
I suggest scheduling in the time for yourself, even if that means putting it on your calendar. Then hold true to your goal. That’s the hardest part, but if you can keep the commitment, you’re golden!
Wrap presents as you go
This is a really specific tip, but it’s one that has worked for me. Our house is so tiny, there’s never room to actually hide anything. I used to hide things in my car, but then I get paranoid that my car could get broken into! For the past 2 years, I’ve wrapped gifts as soon as I get them in order to alleviate the stress of hiding them. It also helps you avoid rushing to do it all on Christmas Eve!
Encourage people to come to you
I always prefer my home to everyone else’s. When people reach out, wanting to hang, I suggest them coming over for drinks and/or dinner. I do this because I know, as an introvert, my strong suit is entertaining smaller groups. It’s also way more affordable than going out to a trendy bar — especially because we’re saving up for a mountain home. If you’re anything like me, I highly recommend trying to get people to come to you… it definitely helps me feel more in control during the holidays.
Those are 5 things that have helped me make the holidays less stressful… what tips do you have to add to the list? Leave a comment and let me know!
