How to Have a Stress Free Christmas

With church, work and school activities during the Christmas holidays, demands on time can create stress. Family calendars become packed with projects, performances and parties, leaving no time to enjoy what is meant to be a time pf peace. Taking some purposeful steps can help get rid of Christmas stress and turn this time into a time of joy. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A plan
• Calendar
• Gift List
• Time

1. Make a list of everyone to whom you normally give gifts. Families grow over time, so your gift list needs to be reasonable and affordable.

2. Look for creative ways to celebrate without gift giving if you're a part of a large family. Have everyone bring copies of favorite holiday recipes to share at Christmas dinner instead of giving gifts.

3. Do holiday baking together to give away to friends and neighbors. This gives large families more time together and helps everyone at the same time.

4. Set a budget. Decide what you can afford for each person, including your kids. Tell children ahead of time what they can ask for. If something is out of the ballpark, gently let them know.

5. Put away money or buy gifts throughout the year. This allows you to take advantage of great sales, unexpected finds and avoid credit card bills in January.

6. Buy gifts in bulk for teachers, pastors, and co-workers, making it personal with an accompanying card. This cuts down on so many trips to the store.

7. Take time to be together. Whether it's a special evening out with your spouse, building a snowman with your kids or sitting together watching the tree lights twinkle, time is a great gift.

8. Limit holiday activities. Everyone has an event at the holidays. Concerts, parties, and charity events can completely consume your calendar. Be selective and choose only those activities that are essential and meaningful to your family.

Tips & Warnings

• Find ways to focus on the meaning of the season. Christmas isn't about hustle and bustle and busyness. Take time to reflect on why your family celebrates this special holiday.

• Creating a stress free Christmas can become habit forming. Be careful, you might find yourself having the most wonderful holiday season you can remember.