Christmas is my all-time favorite time of year. I am THAT GIRL who sings carols all December long and spends days decorating my house. I watch Christmas movies over and over and countdown to Christmas all year. The problem is that my favorite season can become the most stressful time of year if I am not careful. Over the years I have figured out how to have a stress-free Christmas and I want to share my method with you!
How to Have a Stress-Free Christmas
Plan Ahead
I know it seems like the most obvious tip for how to have a stress-free Christmas, but planning really is key. Thinking about my Christmas plans in July is the norm. I like to start thinking about how I am going to make time for special events during December for my family.
Questions start flowing during the summer to find out what will be on my children’s wish lists. Will I be hosting a family party this year or not? I may even buy some holiday décor at garage sales during the spring and summer! I even start thinking about what kind of treats we will make this year…will it be Reindeer Poop Cookies or just bunches of Orange Slice Cookies?
Figure Out My Budget
If I had an unlimited supply of money….I would be spending a lot of it at Christmas. This is an expensive time of year and I admit I do Christmas BIG for my kids! The expenses don’t stop with just GIFTS. There is food for Christmas cookies and special meals. How about going to see the Nutcracker with your daughter? Cha-ching…it all adds up!
The cost of the Christmas season can add a TON of stress to families. It doesn’t have to be that way though. If I am organized and if I work the plan I set up by using the Merry Debt-Free Christmas program. This really keeps me ON target and takes away my stress!!
Don’t Let the Elf Derail Me
Elf on the Shelf can be super fun for kids. For me the elf is a stress inducer. YES…it is one small area I can be a little grinchy. ? Honestly, last year I didn’t even get the elf out and I feel kind of bad about it now. This year I plan to revive our poor elf and will be taking my own advice and will make the Elf work for me!
Don’t Overdo It
I have learned this lesson the HARD way. I used to try to pack so much fun and holiday spirit into our December that we couldn’t even breath. It usually backfired with me being worn out and GRUMPY instead of cheerful.
I decide ahead of time now what we will do during the holidays and BOOM….that is that. Saying NO may have to happen, but I know it will keep my family from being overscheduled. Sometimes the fun is in just BEING together in front of twinkling lights!
Remember the Real Reason for the Season
As much as I LOVE Santa, the reindeer, the North Pole, etc. I know the real reason my family celebrates Christmas. If I get bogged down because I can’t find the latest toy for my kids I just remember what is really important!
How do You Keep From Getting Stressed During the Holidays?
Do you know how to have a stress-free Christmas? What are your favorite tips? Be sure to check out my friend’s Merry Debt-Free Christmas system now and get a workbook to keep you accountable for free! I would love to hear about all your Christmas traditions!
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