It’s so hard not to feel stressed during the holiday season. 
We do our best to maintain our regular everyday lives as well as keep up with the hustle and bustle of shopping, buying and wrapping gifts, planning and cooking meals, going to parties, addressing holiday cards and standing forever in that long line at the post office.
This is a perfect recipe for overwhelm and burn out.
But you can eliminate a lot of stress and transform this hectic time into a peaceful, enjoyable and meaningful experience with these 6 easy tips:
1. Get Clear 
First of all, look at the big picture and ask yourself: What do I want to gain during the holiday season this year? And how can I make that happen? What do I value most? What traditions are most important to me?
Take out your calendar and schedule the functions you really want to attend and the specific tasks you want to take on. Make sure to allow an appropriate amount of time for all of this. And schedule less rather than more!
2. Adopt an Attitude of Gratitude 
Each day, focus on what you’re grateful for. Make a point to be aware of what you love and appreciate as you go through your day. And in the evening or before you go to bed, list three things you’re most grateful for.
You can share these 3 things with a friend or write them in your journal. Today, mine are: the birth of my grand niece Lola; the color magenta; my awesome and wonderful clients, both current and past.
3. Just Say No
Give yourself plenty of permission to say “NO.” If you want to say “no” to a certain event, or “no” to babysitting your neighbor’s children, or “no” to making pie for a holiday dinner, give yourself permission to do what’s right for you.
This may sound like you’re being selfish but really, it’s simply setting healthy boundaries and taking care of yourself.
4. Make a Budget…and Stick to It
One of the biggest stresses during the holidays is spending too much. So, make a plan that feels financially sane and sound to you, and stick with it. Write down a list of people to buy for, designate a maximum dollar amount and be sure to stay well within your means.
5. Get Social 
It’s important not to become isolated during the holidays, so take time to get together with a friend for coffee. Or go for a hike. Or gather a group of friends for dinner.
If for some reason you’re away from family and friends this holiday season, volunteer! It’s a sure way to experience the joy and spirit of the season. You can volunteer at a homeless shelter serving meals, at the SPCA if you love animals, or your local church or synagogue.
6. Feed Your Spirit
While we tend to think of the holidays as a time of endless “to-dos,” it’s also a time for reflection, meditation, prayer and going within. Take time to slow down and attend to your spirit. Read a verse from a religious text or a poem that has significance for you. Attend a certain spiritual or religious event(s) in your community. Sing a song that speaks to you soul.
May your holidays be inspired, uplifting and stress-free, and may peace, joy, love and happiness be yours today and throughout the year!
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