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Step 1
Stop expecting perfection from others and yourself. There is only one Martha Stewart, and even she is not perfect! Think about your fondest holiday memories and chances are you aren't thinking about the table setting or outdoor decorations, but about your loved ones and meaningful memories.
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Step 2
Set priorities. Consider what items, decorations and traditions that really make the holidays special for you and your loved ones. Go all out with those and can the rest.
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Step 3
Make a master list of what needs to be done and by when. Do not add to the list. If it was not important enough for you to include, it is not important enough to stress over. However, you can remove items from the list if you reconsider and determine that they are not really that crucial.
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Step 4
Delegate. Your husband is capable of shopping. Your kids can help clean and decorate. Your coworker can handle organizing the cookie exchange. You don't have to do it all! Refer back to Step 1.
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Step 5
Start early. There is nothing wrong with buying cards after the holidays have passed and working on them beginning in January, or keeping a box in your closet to stash gifts you find while shopping all year long. With a great head start, your stress will be less from the get-go!
