How To Maintain Your Sanity AND Have Fun This Christmas

With only nine days remaining until The Big Day, many of us have our share of social events, shopping, concerts, and holiday parties on our agenda!  Instead of losing your mind over what needs to be done this Christmas, try living in the moment and basking in the glory of this beautiful season. 

…But How?

How To Keep Yourself In Check This Christmas

• Remember the reason for the season.  No matter what your faith or which Holiday you celebrate (Hanukkah, Christmas, or Kwanzaa), take time to feed your soul.  Spirituality is my favorite part of Christmas; the hymns and the peace that comes with them are special to me. 

• Plan Ahead.  This could be the key to a smooth December.  Keep your calendar up-to-date by entering engagements as soon as possible.  This way, you can do what you like with your loved ones and get the most out of the season.  (Tip:  accepting every invitation is not necessary.  Avoid toxic situations to increase your peace of mind and festivity this year!)  

• Do not procrastinate!  Doing so will hinder your joy and peace of mind.  Sometimes, circumstances arise that get in the way but try to stick to your plan and manage your time wisely.  

• Decorate in a timely manner to get the most enjoyment out of the Holiday Season.  Bonus:  the house gets nice and clean during this process!

• Stay on budget.  The money we spend on Christmas is absolutely ridiculous.  Keeping your finances in order throughout this season is critical.  If you are constantly worried about how to pay for the gifts being purchased, how can you get any pleasure from it?  

• Download an app onto your smartphone to manage Christmas gifts.  I found this is an excellent way to track purchased items, the amount spent, and even if the gift is wrapped or not.  I use an app called Gift List available for free on Google Play.

• Consider giving someone an experience this Christmas.  We all give and receive things that will never be used.  Yes, the gifts are appreciated, but wouldn’t it be awesome to give someone a gift that creates memories?  For example, give a music lover tickets to a concert or a sports fan tickets to a sporting event.  Throw in gift certificates to cover dinner to complete the experience.  Someone on your list who frequently dines in restaurants may appreciate a gift certificate to a new establishment.

• Grocery shop in advance.  One thing I do is purchase all of my baking supplies ahead of time to make sure I don’t have last-minute store runs.  I also like to plan my menu for holiday get-togethers.  I save money doing this, too!  These items are placed on sale in November through December, so stocking up is beneficial!

Since your supplies are at your fingertips, get your holiday baking done in advance.  Waiting until Christmas Eve can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety.  Most baked items freeze well, and I find either carving out an entire day to bake or spreading it out over a few evenings after work decreases the pressure.

• Family functions are a large part of our Christmas celebration.  We have family traditions each year so we all know when we get together.  If you are traveling or have family members coming home for Christmas, remember to keep it simple.  The joy of the season is getting together with family and friends! 
• Finally, don’t forget to take time for yourself to decompress and recharge!  Continue to exercise and rejuvenate each day. 

With a little planning, the next two weeks of whirlwind holiday celebrations can be very gratifying for the whole family!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!

April

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