Reduce Holiday Stress

The Holiday Season has become a source of stress for many. We loose sight of the true meaning of Christmas in the hustle and bustle of it all.  What does Christmas mean to you?  Are you doing things to reflect that, or are you doing the things you feel pressured to do?  If we are stressed, we worry, argue, feel frustrated, overwhelmed and depressed.  Our heads and neck are tight, our chests are pounding, our fists and jaws are clenched, our breathing is shallow, and our stomachs are knotted or twisted. These are the same symptoms of stress.
Much of the Holiday stress has to do with the expectations we put upon ourselves. Each year we want to finish our obligations sooner than last year.  There are gifts to buy, parities to host and attend, baking to be done, and Christmas cards to produce.  It’s no wonder we are stressed.  Stop!  Why do we have to buy so much junk and get so cluttered with images of grandeur?

In other words, if you are hosting a party, why are you hosting it?  Is it to have the best of everything, to show off your decorations, or to enjoy friendships?  Write down why you do everything to get a better perspective.  Maybe you can cutback and still accomplish what you want to.

Reduce the expectations of yourself.  Make a list of the things you still want to do, and follow the instructions below.
Become aware of those things that are causing you to stress, and lower the expectations you feel have been placed on you. Rise to a new level of consciousness, restore your ability to discover what truly matters to you, receive ideas on what to do next, and experience peace and happiness.
1.  Make a list of all the things you have left to do.

2.  Write down why you are doing those things.

- Can you drop any of them off your list?  When you do, take it off the list. Take that guilt away!

3.  Write down the worst thing that would happen if you didn’t get it done.

4.  Now of the remaining items, write down the steps you need to take to get the rest done.  Can you lower your expectations on some?

-   Stop thinking, “I have to,” “I need to” or “I should” thoughts. As soon as you catch yourself thinking one of these judgmental – and exhausting – thoughts, restate your thoughts using the words, “I choose,” “I am committed to,” “It would be great if” ” and notice what happens. These powerful thoughts help us relax, discover what we really want and open us to the many ideas on how to achieve it.

5.  Write an action plan for when you will get the items done.  Make a step-by-step guide for yourself. For instance, Christmas breakfast:

• What are you having?  (Here again, can you reduce it?)
• Make a list of the things you need
• What stores do you need to go to
• What additional things need to be done to host the breakfast?  Set table, wash dishes, etc.
• Is there someone who will help

By making lists and seeing yourself completing the task, and reducing expectations, you will see your stress levels go down.