The holiday season is a time when our schedules get full with traveling out of town, hosting guests and attending parties.
All of these things can be quite fun but also can result in more stress than usual.
These ten tips will reduce your stress and mare your holiday season more enjoyable.
(1) It's all about the attitude Tell yourself this year will be less stressful then visualize what this holiday season will be like with more fun and less stress.
You will be amazed at how your vision will become a self fulfilling prophecy.
(2) Don't strive for perfection We can't all be Martha Stewart.
So scale back on the details, most people won't notice the little things that could have taken us hours to create or do.
So instead take the extra time you have on your hands to enjoy the day and the holiday spirit.
(3) Scale back Cook a little less.
Every year we all have plenty of leftovers.
This year cook less and spend the extra time enjoying the company of family and friends.
(4) Plan now Do less running around by putting together a list of what you will need and buying it ahead of time.
If you have guests visiting make sure plan for any items they may need.
This will prevent last minute visits to the store.
(5) Take time out to relax Don't over schedule yourself or your guests.
An afternoon of down time will be a welcome change of pace and will be appreciated by yourself and guests.
(6) Get moving Often our energy is low during the holiday season.
To get re-energized don't slack off on your exercise routine you will need it even more.
If you don't exercise regularly then go for a brisk walk.
This will help your mood as well! (7) Don't sweat the small stuff Let this year be the year you will have more joy and fun by not letting the little things get under your skin.
(8) De-clutter Go through your house and get rid of anything you don't need.
Also, make sure you have everything in its place.
So you can find the special tablecloths, or plates without tearing the house apart.
(9) Just say no Don't say yes, to every party or holiday invitation.
You may initially feel guilty but that outweighs the additional toll it takes on having a hectic holiday season.
(10) Have some fun.
Take some time to truly do something you want to do with your family instead of attending another company party, or social gathering.