6 Ways To Survive and Thrive Under Holiday Stress

Whether you're putting up the Christmas tree, cleaning out your guest bedroom, or wrapping presents—the holidays can be a lot. If you're feeling the pressure of the next few weeks, you're not alone. 

Here are some ideas on how to handle the stress this holiday season and make it the best one yet.

1. Don't overcommit

The holidays are a busy time for everyone. It's easy to get caught up working overtime for extra money while spending time with loved ones that we forget about taking care of ourselves. 

But remember, you don't have to attend every holiday party or spend every waking moment with your family during this time of year. If something doesn't fit into your schedule, don't do it! Besides, there will always be another holiday season next year. 

2. Focus on one task at a time

If you begin to feel overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done, try focusing on one task at a time. Start with something small. Don't move on to another task until the first is finished. This will help keep you from getting overwhelmed by everything you need to do. 

3. Take breaks

It's easy to get burned out when so much is happening during the holiday season, but taking breaks can help prevent it. During busy or stressful times, do something relaxing like reading or yoga. 

When working, take a break around every 90 minutes by going for a short walk outside or getting up from your desk and stretching out your muscles while taking deep breaths. This will help clear your mind and relieve stress before returning to work refreshed and ready to tackle more tasks.

4. Set boundaries

We must set boundaries around our time to focus on what's most important. This means saying no when necessary. It can also mean setting aside specific hours during each day where we won't allow any distractions from work or other commitments to come into play (e.g., no phone calls from friends or family during lunch hour).

When we don't set boundaries for ourselves and others, we are more prone to burnout and stress from a lack of control over our schedules or surroundings. Setting boundaries allows us to take back control over our lives so that we can focus on what matters most to us instead of what's expected of us by others.

5. Communicate with your loved ones

Make sure everyone knows your hopes and expectations for the holidays so there are no surprises or misunderstandings. Discuss how best to meet each other's needs and desires without sacrificing your own. This will help everyone get what they want without compromising their values or beliefs.

6. Don't forget about yourself

Everyone needs downtime every once in a while, especially during the holidays; it helps us recharge to go back into the world, ready to take on whatever comes our way next. If you feel overwhelmed by all the events around you and are struggling to keep up with everything, take some time for yourself. You don't have to attend every event or spend every night with family members.

 When feeling stressed or anxious, try taking deep breaths, meditating, or walking outside for a few minutes before returning to your responsibilities.

The most important factor to remember is RELAX. As you enter the holiday season, take a moment to reflect on what's most important in your life. If you work at it, you'll find that the holidays can be a time for relaxation and joy.