The holidays are a fun and exciting time to spend with friends and family, but it can also be hectic and stressful! Many people worry about money during the holidays and are cautious not to overspend but sometimes they feel like they’re missing out. We’ve compiled a list of 4 ways you can enjoy the holiday without adding any additional stress to your plate.
1. Create New Traditions. Traditions are usually passed down from generation to generation but that doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate new traditions into your routine. Buy some gingerbread house kits and decorate them with your family while watching holiday classics. Have an ugly Christmas sweater party with your friends but make it a potluck so you’re not spending a ton of money on food! Find the neighborhoods in your town that have the BEST Christmas lights and drive (or walk!) around while listening to Christmas music to really get you in the holiday spirit. All of these can still bring you joy without hurting your wallet!
2. Set Your Clear Expectations. Picture your ideal holiday season in your mind. What traditions are you keeping this year? What’s on the menu for your holiday celebration? Who are you inviting over to celebrate with you? What is your budget for gifts, travel, decorations and food? Set these clear expectations at the beginning and share them with your loved ones so they can understand your point of view. Then ask them what their holiday expectations are so you can honor them as well. Setting and sharing your clear expectations of the season to those around you can help alleviate stress and keep you happy.
3. Don’t Over Commit Yourself. It’s OK to say no! White Elephant parties, Secret Santa, Christmas cookie exchanges—while these are all exciting holiday parties to attend, it’s important to recognize your boundary and don’t over commit yourself to plans if you don’t have the time and can’t afford them. It’s unrealistic to believe that you can attend multiple parties every weekend during the holiday season because honestly, the season is quite short between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Committing to appear and participate at multiple parties will only add to your stress instead of allowing you to relax and enjoy that time with your friends and family.
4. Stay Active. Staying active is a great way to clear the mind and stay healthy. The holiday season can be hectic and if you live in an area where it gets dark at 4pm and it’s cold and snowy outside, it may make you feel unmotivated to go out and do something. If you work from home, try taking a 15-minute walk on your lunch break to get some fresh air and enjoy the sunshine. Wake up 30 minutes earlier than usual and do some light yoga to start your day off on the right foot. Use activity time to finish your holiday shopping by hitting up a mall or shopping center–do some laps while you shop to get some extra steps in. These simple adjustments can lift your spirits, keep your mind and body active, and reduce stress!
Still looking for more ideas? Check out the Making Money Personal Podcast episode for 6 more inexpensive ways to lower holiday stress!
