Making The Holidays Less Stressful

Friday, November 30, 2018 - 9:00am

 

The holidays tend to be one of the happiest but also one of the most stressful times of the year. Plus, the colder weather is a hard adjustment as well.  So why not break tradition and lose the stressful part? Your life has become an endless round of checking things off lists: cards to send, presents to buy, entertaining, decorating, etc. Here’s how to lighten the load and simplify so you can get back in the holiday spirit this year.

 

Limit Holiday Events

 

Yes, there are parties and gatherings that you must attend, but it feels as if this time of year the events pile up pretty quickly. From office-get-togethers, ugly sweater parties, or caroling with your friends, you don’t have much time to relax. Decide in advance just how many holiday functions you want to attend and make sure to RSVP ahead of time. Then politely decline the rest of the invites.

 

Hire Some Of Your Own “Little Helpers”

 

Make this time of year a family event. Ask your kiddos to help you around the house or with fun decorating projects (check out this list for some fun ideas) such as baking holiday cookies, or cleaning up the living and dining room before the family comes over. Also, consider that your kids aren’t the only helpers that you can find. Talk to your local grocery store/catering company to see if there are specials on holiday platters and food. Yes, this might be a small expense but well worth it in the end.

 

Ask for your family’s input.

 

For some families, the holidays are one of the only times of the year they get to see each other. This can put stress on a host or hostess to make sure that everything is perfect. Take the guessing out of it and ask your family which dishes, gifts, and holiday activities they would prefer.

 

At the Center for Dispute Settlement, we strive to resolve any dispute peacefully. Yes, we know this time of year isn’t always to easiest but it is also the best time of year to approach a possible dispute with a family member, friend, coworker, etc. Connect with us to learn more about our many programs designed to help you.